Carl Sandburg: Echoes and Silences is a biographical portrait of the famed poet/historian. In elucidating his theory that Sandburg's work and life "were one," producer Perry Miller Adato combined readings of Sandburg's poetry with stills, newsreel clips, interviews, and dramatic reenactments. John Cullum plays himself while interviewing Sandburg's daughter and granddaughter at the family home in Galesburg, Illinois, then accurately impersonates Sandburg while reciting the poet's works and relating anecdotes. Michael Higgins and Frances Conroy co-star in this 2-hour presentation, which was scripted by Paul Shyre. Echoes and Silences was first telecast March 2, 1982 on PBS' American Playhouse series. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi