Nine commissioned essays introduce the non-specialist to the rapidly evolving field of composition studies, discussing the nature of the field, the relationship between composition and rhetoric and between theory and practice, the history of the discipline, its bibliographic sources and problems, its methods of research, teaching writing, and the politics of the profession. A concluding personal essay describes a life in the profession. Written by prominent authorities, these essays describe current developments in the field, outline the major issues, and suggest needed research. Most essays provide a brief bibliography of further readings. This important book gives students and teachers an invaluable overview of composition studies, a vital field of English and literacy education.