Super Short Summary

Paterson by William Carlos Williams intertwines the life of the titular character Paterson with the city of Paterson, New Jersey through a collage of verse, letters, and historical anecdotes. The poem highlights the interconnectedness of humans and nature, the birth and death of language, and the ecologies of the city. Paterson reflects on the beauty and danger of natural elements, such as water and fire, while exploring the impact of history, human relationships, and the artistic struggle. Inhabitants' lives weave into the narrative, connecting personal and communal histories. The text features graphic descriptions of death, sexuality, violence, and natural disasters.