While some critics have found Levine too commonplace, others like Terrance Rafferty have hailed him as akin to Whitman, a poet of the American working-class. Critics also laud him as a master of narrative poetry that captures those working-class struggles with sympathy and unflinching authenticity. He knew from where he came. Levine grew up in Detroit and was employed in auto parts factories when he was as young as 14 to the age of 29. He faced economic hardship and antisemitic hatred due to his Jewish heritage, which he explored in his poetry throughout his life.

Levine studied with Robert Lowell and John Berryman, whom he described, in an interview with Terry Gross, as “a great teacher. I never needed another teacher after that” (See: Further Reading & Resources). After dabbling with formalism in his first two poetry collections, Levine developed a straightforward free-verse style that earned him praise for his blunt honesty and accurate portrayals. As he progressed as a poet, Levine developed a dedication to list-making, dramatic monologue, and extensive imagery. During his lifetime, he received the highest honors and was respected by critics and popular with audiences.