How Poems Work: Meanings, techniques and effects in 100 poems from Beowulf to the Iraq War

This annotated anthology provides an accessible and comprehensive guide to understanding poetry. It demystifies the genre by presenting a millennium of poetry, explaining historical backgrounds, meanings, techniques, and effects, and highlighting major themes. The book is designed for readers interested in learning about or teaching poetry, as well as those revisiting poems and poets. It covers a wide range of existing poetic canon and includes diverse historically important poets and less well-known poems.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2018
Publisher: John Catt Educational Ltd

Poetry is a complex art form that often leaves readers perplexed and bewildered. While some may argue that it is best to simply enjoy the beauty and sound of a poem without delving into its deeper meanings or technical intricacies, others recognize the importance of studying poetry for academic or personal purposes. This annotated anthology, written by Robert Gullifer and Matthew Jenkinson, aims to demystify poetry and provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of its various aspects.

From the ancient epic of Beowulf to the contemporary conflicts of the Iraq War, this book presents a millennium of poetry in a way that is accessible and engaging. Historical backgrounds, meanings, techniques, and effects are explained and analyzed clearly and logically, helping readers to understand what poets have been trying to convey to us across centuries. At the same time, major themes that have recurred in poetry are highlighted, allowing general readers, teachers, and students to navigate the poems as they wish. Whether by time period, technique, or theme, this book offers a wealth of information and insights into the world of poetry.

One of the key strengths of How Poems Work is its inclusivity. The book covers much of the existing poetic canon, while also broadening it to include diverse historically important poets who have been previously overlooked. It also includes less well-known poems by already canonical poets, ensuring that a wide range of voices and styles are represented. In addition, the book includes poems that are technically interesting, allowing for the kind of analysis expected in classrooms and examinations.

What sets How Poems Work apart is its appeal to a wide audience across the English-speaking world. While British and American poems are prominently featured, the book also includes poems from other cultures, reflecting the global nature of poetry and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. This diversity adds depth and richness to the anthology, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning about or teaching poetry.

In conclusion, How Poems Work is a comprehensive and accessible anthology that provides readers with a deep understanding of poetry. Whether you are a student, teacher, or simply a lover of poetry, this book offers valuable insights and perspectives that will enhance your appreciation of this complex art form. By demystifying poetry and presenting it in a way that is both informative and engaging, Robert Gullifer and Matthew Jenkinson have created a masterpiece that will inspire and educate generations to come.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 150 x 210 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911382942