When blithe to argument I come, Though armed with facts, and merry, May Providence protect me from The fool as adversary, Whose mind to him a kingdom is Where reason lacks dominion, Who calls conviction prejudice And prejudice opinion.

Sylvia Plath wrote in her journal “Phyllis McGinley is out – light verse: Phyllis McGinley’s sold herself” (Leroy 14-15). They married on June 25 1937 and moved to Larchmont New York. Awards and honors
McGinley was elected to the National Academy of Arts and Letters in 1955.

Time Magazine featured McGinley on its cover on June 18 1965. Her poetry was in the style of light verse specializing in humor satiric tone and the positive aspects of suburban life.