Poetry - A Modern Guide To Its Understanding and Enjoyment

by DREW ELIZABETH

The aim of this Book is to make the reading of poetry an exploration which constantly reveals new insights to the reader about himself as well as about the poets and their work. Because Elizabeth Drew believes that poetry is written to be read and enjoyed, she quotes many poems, old and new, familiar and unfamiliar. Her first chapters speak of the poetic language, symbolism, and rhythms. The rest of the book is devoted to a collection and discussion of poems on the great human themes love, religion, humanity that recur in every age and are given their most intense and memorable expression in poetry. Analyzes and discusses the craftsmanship of the poet and the elements of poetry. With the use of many examples the author reveals the poet's interpretation of human existence.

Genres: Poetry, Literature

287 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 1959

Reviews

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got a beat-up little paperback copy of this book decades ago, handed down from my maternal grandfather (I think). I found the book so insightful & helpful in terms of understanding & appreciating many of the great works of poetry, both classical & modern.

I've been re-reading it now in 2019. The original copy was falling apart, literally page by page, so I bought a secondhand library copy to replace it. It's still one of the best books about poetry that I've ever seen.

[Virginia B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Published in 1959, so not exactly modern, but a very good and complete series of essays about just about every aspect of poetry in the English language, accompanied by many poems, and very fun to read.

[Wanda]

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