From the author of his bibliography and the editor of his letters comes this new biography of Canada's most outspoken poet, Irving Layton. Beginning with Layton's youth in Montreal, this book examines Layton's early days with Louis Dudek and the First Statement poets. From his first book in 1945 to his outstanding success in the 1960s, the volume captures the essence of Layton's turbulent and provocative life.

Francis Mansbridge’s interest in the history of the North Shore was stimulated by his dozen years as an archivist in North Vancouver. A love of outdoor recreation has led him to spend extensive time exploring the Hollyburn area. Prior to his archival work, Francis taught English at a number of colleges and universities, mostly at the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook. He holds a PhD in English from the University of Ottawa and has published extensively on both academic and popular subjects. His previous books include God’s Recording Angel, a biography of the Canadian poet Irving Layton, and Launching History: The Saga of Burrard Dry Dock. The latter book won the B.C. Lieutenant-Governor’s award for historical writing in 2002.

Francis Mansbridge's profile page

“Mansbridge, a longtime scholar of the Montreal poet, captures the essence of a turbulent and controversial life.... full of intriguing insights.” —The London Free Press

“A coherent, accessible biography, rife with revealing, sometimes shocking anecdotes.” —The Montreal Gazette