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A critique is presented of poems by formalist author James Merrill such as "Urban Convalescence," "The Drowning Poet," and "18 West 11th Street." Merrill's poetics, portrayal of emotions, and sexuality are discussed, as well as his humor and themes of grief. Suffering in poetry and Merrill's imagery of ruined buildings are also discussed.

The article examines poststructuralist ideas and modern metaphors employed by the American poet James Merrill in his long narrative poem "The Changing Light at Sandover." Methodology used by Merrill in his poem is commented on, and a brief overview of Merrill's life and literary career is presented.