James A. Merrill, a contemporary American poet, gave a public reading of his work to an audience which filled the aisles and spilled onto the stage of Boylston Hall auditorium last night.

Merrill spent an hour reciting previously published works, including his modern epic "The Changing Light of Sandover," and selections from a soon-to-be-published volume.

Merrill, who has been called the greatest poet since Robert Lowell, frequently paused in his reading, at one point expressing concern about lack of room in the 150 seat auditorium.

Several people who attended the lecture praised Merrill's ability to read poetry as well as write it. Vernon L. Shetley, assistant professor of English at Wellesley College, praised Merrill as "the best reader of poetry that there is."

"He's a very good poet, and...he has the unusual capacity to be a great reader as well," said Richard M. Dey '73. And because the poet divides between the U.S. and Greece, he is able to bring a worldly quality to his work.

The Advocate

The Advocate, a campus literary magazine, sponsored the recitation, and one member said the group plans several others this year.

"We're interested in getting the best poets in the world here," said Laura Winters '90. "I think it's a wonderful occasion to have everyone come together to share in what a great poet has to say."