The Poetry Toolkit: The Essential Guide to Studying Poetry : 2nd Edition

With examples from an extensive range of poets from Chaucer to today, The Poetry Toolkit offers simple and clear explanations of key terms, genres and concepts that enable readers to develop a richer, more sophisticated approach to reading, thinking and writing about poems. Combining an easy-to-use reference format defining and illustrating key concepts, forms and topics, with in-depth practice readings and further exercises, the book helps students master the study of poetry for themselves. Now in its second edition, The Poetry Toolkit includes a wider range of examples from contemporary poetry and more American poetry. In addition, an extended close reading section now offers practice comparative readings of the kind students are most likely to be asked to undertake, as well as readings informed by contemporary environmental and urban approaches. The book is also supported by extensive online resources, including podcasts, weblinks, guides to further reading and advanced study guides to reading poetry theoretically. Contents Acknowledgements Copyright acknowledgements List of terms Preface to the second edition PART I: INTRODUCING POETRY Introduction How to use this book 1 Types and traditions PART II: TECHNICAL VOCABULARY 2 Form 3 Prosody 4 Rhyme 5 Stanza 6 Wordplay PART III: PRACTICAL 7 Close reading Sources and suggestions for further reading Index Poetry is a core part of the undergraduate English curriculum but is seen as particularly difficult and students often find it intimidating. This guide helps to build the knowledge and tools needed to tackle poetry with confidence. It helps students starting to study poetry by giving guidance for reading and writing.