In Myself Painting Clarence Major seeks to re-create for readers the inexpressible feeling that comes from creating art, with poems that speak not of painting itself but of its underlying process. Major incorporates the techniques of painting--particularly that of Post-Expressionism--into his verse, describing scenery with an artist's eye and using form and color to evoke striking images: "Desire, artichoke green . leaves all radiant, / creating the thickness of blue shadows." A master of highly structured free verse, Major also paints sounds, enthralling the reader in a realm of private symbols and dream visions. Using dynamic, surreal images, this original collection invites readers into the poet's own fascinating world.--Toni Morrison "National Book Award Finalist citation for Configurations".