<DIV><P>The fifth volume of the PIP series features the work of innovative poets of Southern California. This group of 25 poets does not write a particular “kind” of poetry but has worked together through a series of intersecting ideas and interests to create some of the best writing of contemporary poetry, contradicting many of the simplistic notions of the nation regarding this region of the country. In his introduction, Messerli presents an original history of the literary scene in Southern California and outlines its many -contributions to American culture and the shared interests of these poets.</P></DIV>