The Life of Robert Frost presents a unique and rich approach to the poet that includes original genealogical research concerning Frost s ancestors, and a demonstration of how mental illness plagued the Frost family and heavily influenced Frost s poetry. A widely revealing biography of Frost that discusses his often perplexing journey from humble roots to poetic fame, revealing new details of Frost s life Takes a unique approach by giving attention to Frost s genealogy and the family history of mental illness, presenting a complete picture of Frost s complexity Discusses the traumatic effect on Frost of his father s early death and the impact on his poetry and outlook Presents original information on the influence of his mother s Swedenborgian mysticism