American Poetry: A Very Short Introduction

American poetry is distinctive due to its emphasis on uniqueness and transnationalism. It combines techniques, styles, and traditions from beyond its borders, driven by the desire for novelty and a break with outmoded and foreign elements. This combination of characteristics energizes American poetry, leading to its development as a great national literature that continues to inspire contemporary poets. The book explores the artistry of major poets throughout history, including Anne Bradstreet, T.S. Eliot, Phillis Wheatley, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, W.H. Auden, and Langston Hughes, and emphasizes the importance of American English as an artistic resource.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

American poetry, a vast and diverse genre encompassing a wide range of styles, techniques, and forms, stands out for its unique characteristics. In his concise and engaging book, David Caplan presents a fresh theory of American poetry, arguing that two key aspects define this contentious literature. On the one hand, prominent poets and critics in America advocate for a poetry that matches the country's distinctiveness, calling for innovation and a departure from what is perceived as outdated and foreign. They champion the exploration of new ideas and the embrace of international influences. On the other hand, American poetry warmly welcomes techniques, styles, and traditions from far beyond its borders. The interplay between these two competing characteristics gives rise to the remarkable force that drives American poetry, propelling it toward becoming a great national literature that continues to inspire poets in the contemporary era.

American Poetry: A Very Short Introduction takes readers on a historical journey, showcasing the artistry of poets across different eras. By closely examining the verse forms, meters, and styles employed by these poets, the book honors their craftsmanship. Examples range from the early works of Anne Bradstreet, who wrote centuries before the United States was established, to the poets of the Black Lives Matter movement, who are making their voices heard today. Individual chapters delve into how other influential figures, such as T.S. Eliot, Phillis Wheatley, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, W.H. Auden, and Langston Hughes, have emphasized convention or idiosyncrasy while also utilizing American English as a valuable artistic resource. This concise examination of American poetry deepens our understanding of both the literature's distinctive achievements and the prominent place of its most important writers within it.

In conclusion, American poetry is a vibrant and dynamic field that thrives on the interplay between its emphasis on uniqueness and its transnationalism. Caplan's book offers a valuable perspective on this rich literary tradition, enriching our understanding of American poetry's distinctive qualities and its ongoing influence on the world of poetry. By exploring the historical context, verse forms, and styles employed by various poets, the book provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to this important genre. Whether one is a seasoned poetry enthusiast or a newcomer seeking to explore the world of American poetry, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the depth and richness of this remarkable literature.

Weight: 128g
Dimension: 112 x 175 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190640194