Music of Time: Poetry in the Twentieth Century

The Music of Time is the first and only history of twentieth-century poetry, by acclaimed poet, author, and academic John Burnside. It brings together poets from diverse times and places, showing how they engaged with and shaped important issues of their times and were affected by their context and dialogue with each other. It is a major work of scholarship that demonstrates the transformative beauty and power of poetry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

The poets of the 20th century have left an indelible mark on our collective memory, shaping our understanding of the era at every significant turning point. From the muddy trenches of the Western front to the aftermath of empire, they were there, pen in hand, ready to capture the essence of the moment. John Burnside, an acclaimed poet, author, and academic, has written the first and only history of 20th-century poetry. In his remarkable work, "The Music of Time," Burnside brings together poets from diverse backgrounds, including Tsarist Russia, 1960s America, and Ireland during the Troubles. Through their words, Burnside explores how poets engaged with and shaped the most pressing issues of their time, while also being influenced by their context and the dialogue with their fellow poets. This is a significant work of scholarship that showcases the transformative beauty and power of poetry on every page.

The poets of the 20th century were a diverse group, hailing from different countries and eras. They brought with them their unique perspectives and experiences, which shaped their poetry. Tsarist Russia, for example, was a time of political turmoil and artistic experimentation, with poets like Anna Akhmatova and Aleksandr Pushkin exploring themes of love, politics, and social change. In 1960s America, the counterculture movement was in full swing, and poets like Allen Ginsberg and Bob Dylan were expressing their dissent and rebellion through their music and poetry. In Ireland, during the Troubles, poets like Seamus Heaney and Patrick Kavanagh were grappling with the devastating effects of conflict and violence.

Despite their differences, the poets of the 20th century shared a common goal: to use their words to capture the essence of the human experience. They sought to explore the complexities of love, politics, war, and social injustice, and to offer insights and perspectives that could inspire and challenge their readers. Their poetry was often raw and emotional, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of their lives.

One of the most significant aspects of 20th-century poetry was its ability to transcend boundaries and connect people from different cultures and backgrounds. Poets like W.H. Auden and T.S. Eliot, who were known for their experimental and innovative styles, were able to bridge the gap between different artistic movements and create works that were both accessible and profound. Their poetry was often translated into multiple languages, allowing it to reach a wider audience and have a greater impact on the world.

In addition to their artistic contributions, the poets of the 20th century also played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and social change. They used their words to raise awareness about important issues such as war, poverty, and environmental degradation, and to advocate for social justice and human rights. Their poetry was a powerful tool for activism and protest, and it helped to inspire generations of artists and activists who continue to work towards a more just and equitable world.

As we reflect on the 20th century, it is clear that the poets who lived and wrote in it played a vital role in shaping our collective memory and understanding of the era. Their words continue to resonate with us today, reminding us of the power of poetry to capture the essence of the human experience and to inspire and challenge us. John Burnside's "The Music of Time" is a testament to the enduring legacy of 20th-century poetry, and it serves as a valuable resource for anyone who seeks to explore the rich and diverse world of 20th-century literature.

Weight: 424g
Dimension: 197 x 167 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781255629
Edition number: Main