The Pleasure of Poetry : Reading and Enjoying British Poetry from Donne to Burns

The poetry produced by the English poets of the 17th and 18th centuries is considered among the best ever written.

But many general readers feel intimidated by the language or structure of the poetry and so tend to shy away from enjoying these poets and their works.

The author takes readers on a tour of the major works and figures of the period, explaining major themes, devices, styles, language, rhythm, sound, tone, imagery, form, and meaning.

Beginning each chapter with a sketch of the poet's life and career, the author then looks at five or six representative works, helping readers understand and appreciate the beauty of poetry itself.

From Donne and Jonson, to Pope, Swift, and Burns, the book offers excerpts of the poetry these artists crafted, and carefully examines the various aspects that have helped to establish them as some of the greatest of all time.

Writing in clear, accessible language, the author also introduces general poetry terms to the novice, providing examples and explanations where necessary.

No longer will readers feel intimidated by "difficult" poetry. Instead, they will walk away with the tools they need to read, understand, and appreciate other poetry by these titans of English letters.