Makes a case for innovation as the generative and thematic force in American poetry of the late 20th century. Syncopations is an analysis of the sustaining vitality behind contemporary American poetry from 1975 to the present day by one of the most astute observers and critics in the field. The 12 essays reflect Jed Rasula's nearly 30 years of advocacy on behalf of ""opening the field"" of American poetry. From the Beats and the Black Mountain poets in the 1950's and 1960's to the impact of language poetry, the specter of an avant-garde has haunted the administrative centers of poetic conservation