The Pleasure Of Poetry

The poetry produced by the British poets of the 17th and 18th centuries is considered to be 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. Nelson takes readers on a tour of the major works and figures of 17th- and 18th-century British poetry, 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 attributes that have helped to establish them as some of the greatest of all time.

Writing in clear, accessible language, Nelson also introduces general poetry terms to the novice, providing examples and explanations where necessary. Readers will no longer feel intimidated by difficult poetry. Instead, they will walk away with the tools they need to read, understand, and appreciate these titans of British letters.

Review: The Pleasure of Poetry: Reading and Enjoying British Poetry from Donne to Burns reviews the major works and poets of 17th and 18th century British history, exploring themes, styles, imagery and meaning and pairing analysis with biographical references for added understanding. While college-level students will be the most likely readers, don't let the scholarly tone deter you if you're a non-college adult seeking better understanding of British poetry: The Pleasure of Poetry explains it all most clearly and is for any who would receive either an introduction or a refresher course under one cover. - California Bookwatch To introduce readers to the major works and figures of 17th- and 18th-century British poetry, Nelson uses representative works from poets such as Donne, Jonson, Pope, Swift and Burns to explain their themes, devices, styles, language, rhythm, sound, tone, imagery, form and meaning.

He begins each chapter with a sketch of the poet's life and career. The text is written for the general reader. - Reference Research Book News