17 NOVEMBER 1888, Page 17

The Poems of Giacomo Leopardi. Translated by Frederick Townsend. (G.

P. Putnam's Sons.)—Those who are unable to read the works of Leopardi in his own language will welcome this book. His poems are many of them very beautiful, and in spite of the morbid tone which runs through nearly all, are well worth studying. The three, "To Italy," "To Dante's Monument," and "To Angelo Mal," are undoubtedly his finest efforts. They are remarkable for their deep learning and thoughtfulness, as well ELB for their fervent patriotism. Mr. Townsend has done his work well and carefully. A translation very seldom makes pleasant reading, but Mr. Townsend has contrived to be an exception to the general rule. His verse is pleasing and rhythmical, and in some of the poems, more especially those of which we have made mention, he has been successful in catching the spirit of the author.