Her semi autobiographical, 'Novel on Yellow Paper', was an instant success in the 1930's and she became popular again in the 60's for her readings on the radio and on stage. She still has an enthusiastic following, and although some critics consider her to be 'lightweight', there are notable writers and critics who have appreciated her work: Sylvia Plath confessed herself to be a Smith addict, and wrote that Stevie was one of the poets who were 'possessed by their rhythms as by the rhythms of their own breathing.