To explore the depth of the literary connection between William Carlos Williams and Frank O'Hara, particularly in relation to their American roots, this book examines their distinct responses to Abstract Expressionism, or the New York School artists. Although an outsider to this movement, Williams paid attention to its increasing popularity and ultimately valued its importance in the progression of American art. As an outsider, O'Hara functioned as a vital critic and promoter of this group. Foremost among the artists discussed here are Jackson Pollack, Robert Motherwell, and David Smith.