Bryant, William Cullen (1794-1878) - American poet and editor of the New
York Evening Post who practiced law before devoting his life to writing. A
master of blank verse, Bryant's earliest works are considered his best.
Rizpah (1824) - Based on an Old Testament story in 2 Samuel. Opening lines:
Hear what the desolate Rizpah said, / As on Gibeah's rock she watched the
dead....
