The Routledge Introduction to Twentieth- and Twenty-First-Century Canadian Poetry

Poetry is a powerful form of expression that can puncture the surface and give greater range to our lives and thinking. This book provides students with an introduction to the key cultural, political, and historical events that inform twentieth- and twenty-first-century Canadian poetry, as well as familiarizes them with poetic movements, trends, and forms of the same time period. It also addresses the aesthetic and social contexts of Canadian poetry written in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, modeling for its readers the critical and theoretical discourses needed to understand the contexts of literary production in Canada.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

When asked the question, "What is the power of poetry?" writer Ian Williams offered a profound response: poetry punctures the surface. This statement, that poetry matters and that it does something, forms the core of this book. Building upon this fundamental idea, the practical and pedagogical aim of this book is twofold: the first is to provide students with an introduction to the key cultural, political, and historical events that inform twentieth- and twenty-first-century Canadian poetry. The second is to familiarize those same readers with poetic movements, trends, and forms of the same time period.

This book addresses the aesthetic and social contexts of Canadian poetry written in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. It serves as a model for readers, equipping them with the critical and theoretical discourses necessary to understand the contexts of literary production in Canada. In essence, readers need a sense of the "where" and "how" of poetic production to help them situate themselves in the "what" of poetry itself.

In addition to offering a historically contextualized overview of the significant movements, developments, and poets of this time period, this book also familiarizes readers with key moments of reflection and rupture, such as the effects of economic and ecological crises, global conflicts, and debates around appropriation of culture. It is important to note that this book is built on the premise that poetry in Canada does not happen outside of political, social, and cultural contexts.

Through its exploration of the power of poetry, this book aims to deepen our understanding of the literary landscape and its role in shaping our world. It encourages readers to engage with poetry on a deeper level, to appreciate its beauty, its complexity, and its ability to communicate and connect. Whether you are a student, a poet, or simply a lover of literature, this book offers valuable insights and perspectives that will enrich your appreciation of poetry and its enduring significance.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367371661