In John Cheever's "The Stories of John Cheever," there is a notable reflection on the tragic fates of four poets often associated with Bascomb. Each poet met a grim end, highlighting the darker aspects of the creative spirit and the perils that can accompany artistic life. One poet succumbed to self-inflicted gunshot wounds, another drowned, a third took his life by hanging, and the last fell victim to delirium tremens, illustrating the destructive tendencies often observed in those deeply immersed in their craft.

This bleak overview suggests a shared vulnerability among these poets, emphasizing how the pursuit of art can lead to profound despair. Cheever's mention of their fates serves as a sobering reminder of the mental and emotional struggles that can plague creative individuals. Their tragic outcomes reflect a poignant commentary on the sacrifices made in the name of artistry and the dangers that accompany the quest for expression and validation.