A FINE MADNESS is about a creative spirit's struggle for survival in an analytical society. Samson Shillitoe, is (according to Shelly's definition) one of "the unacknowledged legislators of the world." But poetry does not rule our world and his obsession with completing his epic poem leads to his violating most accepted standards of behavior and into conflicts, both comic and deadly, with adversaries intent on making him "normal." Since A FINE MADNESS was published in 1964 it has achieved the status of a modern comedy classic. This new edition contains a preface by the author which will add to the reader's enjoyment. "I cannot imagine anyone reading A FINE MADNESS without his vision being sharpened and dignified." - New York Times Book Review