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The Making of a Poem

A Norton Anthology of Poetic Forms


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Each chapter of this instructive volume focuses closely on a particular poetic form, following it from its early flourishing through modern times. In the Ode chapter, for instance, poems by John Keats and Joy Harjo are united by their use of form. Each chapter includes several examples of poems in the form in question with ample analyses. Villanelle, sestina, sonnet, and many others are discussed.


Available editions of The Making of a Poem

9780393049169 9780393049169, Hardcover, W W Norton & Co Inc, 2000

$26.34 (Very Good)

Other copies of 9780393049169
   
9780393321784 9780393321784, Paperback, W W Norton & Co Inc, 2001

$8.08 (Good Condition)

Other copies of 9780393321784
   

Publisher Notes

Two beloved and esteemed poets have collaborated on this intimate and useful anthology illuminating the history, practice, and wonder of our most elusive art. Intended for all those who love poetry, including teachers, readers, writers, and students, The Making of a Poem will be especially valued by those who feel that an understanding of form—sonnet, ballad, villanelle, sestina, etc.—would enhance their appreciation of poetry, but are daunted by the terms, the names, and the histories of various poetic forms. This anthology draws the reader in, by example and explanation, to the excitement and entertainment of these forms. It explains their origins, traces their development, and shows examples from the past and present. In a feature called "The form at a glance" the reader can try his or her own hand writing a particular form. Included are essays by each of the editors describing their own personal journeys toward a form for their poetic voice. Above all, this anthology shows that poetic form is a continuing adventure. Contemporary poets can be seen here trying out the same forms that poets used hundreds of years ago, but in the new circumstances of a complicated modern world. In this way poetic form is illustrated not as a series of rules, but as a passionate conversation in which every reader of poetry can become involved.
AUTHCOMMENTS: In the words of its editors, The Making of a Poem "looks squarely at some of the headaches and mysteries of poetic form." Here, two of our foremost poets provide a lucid, straightforward primer for those who have always felt that an understanding of form—sonnet, ballad, villanelle, sestina, etc.—would enhance their appreciation of poetry. By example and explanation, the anthology traces "the exuberant history of forms," a history that unites poets as diverse as John Keats and Joy Harjo (the Ode) or Geoffrey Chaucer and Jean Toomer (the Stanza). Each chapter is devoted to one form, offering explanation, close reading, and a rich selection of exemplars that amply demonstrate the power and possibility of the form.

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