The central idea of this collection of nearly 300 poems is to give a faithful picture of the outward aspect and inner life of England and its people in works selected from the writings of English poets of every period in  English literature. The poems are presented in subject groups : the scenes, memories  and associations of the countryside, sea and town; the national character; music and art, poetry and letters; childhood, youth and old age; sports; satire and humour and much more.

hardback with dust jacket showing wear and tear around the edges – the book is otherwise in good condition in view of age (1944)