The Art of Poetry: The Oxford Lectures 1984-1989 - Hardcover

In this engaging and eloquent book, Peter Levi (1931-2000), distinguished poet, biographer, classicist and critic looks at poets and poetry through the centuries and in many languages. Simply, without technicalities, and with ample quotation, Levi seeks to instruct and encourage young poets and both young and old readers of poetry. Fifteen chapters, based on the lectures given by Levi as holder of the prestigious chair of Poetry at Oxford University between 1984-9, shed light on a varied selection of Shakespeare and Milton to Auden, Larkin, Lear, Pound and James Fenton. Equally familiar with classical and modern poetry, attractively independent and bold in his judgements, Levi brings the discipline of a scholar and the sensibility of a writer to the interpretation and appreciation of the poets he presents. He provides fresh insights not only on major classics but also on neglected figures, illuminating each with the mature understanding of a practitioner of their art. And he displays a rare appreciation of the sophistication of oral poetry, and to its links with written verse, in a manner that provokes comparisons between modes of poetic production conventionally regarded as distinct. This book will deepen the appreciation of all readers of poetry.