To write a linear history of a great literature is a difficult task, verging on
the impossible these days. Professor Alexander has brought off a remarkable
feat. His history is comprehensive, clear, judicious and sometimes punchy.This
is an account of English writing which can be of great use to the student, the
fact-hound, the teacher of the general reader. Above all, it is a triumph of
reason and judgement, never cranky, nor exclusive. I shall recommend it
widely.'- Chris Wallace-Crabbe, Emeritus Professor, University of Melbourne,
Australia