Lots of translators work with languages they don't speak. Did you think that Merwin spoke 60 different languages? They generally work with native speakers, and often the results are pleasing to scholars of both languages. I'd rather read a Merwin translation than one by a lesser poet with a greater knowledge of the original language.
Anwyay, some years back I read "The Situation of Poetry," which I found very engaging and informative, though I understand that some folks disagree with the premise that contemporary poets still write, by and large, in the romantic tradition.
I'm surprised that this excellent book was written by the same smarmy and unappelaing fellow who sometimes chants poems for the camera at the end of the Newshour, or the fellow I've seen at poetry events complaining to strangers that he has not yet been given his check. His own poetry is highly regarded by many, including a strong recommendation by Robert Hass during an online poetry chat, though I've never been fond of it and I find it somewhat wordy, however skilled, and it doesn't do much for me.
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