Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: Selected Poems : Book Review

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a renowned American poet and writer, is celebrated for his captivating lyrical verses. This collection serves as a treasure trove of his literary prowess, offering readers a comprehensive overview of his remarkable contributions to the world of poetry. With a diverse selection of Longfellow's famous poems and prose, both enthusiasts and newcomers to his writings will find something to appreciate.

The collection prominently features Longfellow's most well-known works, including "The Song of Hiawatha," "Paul Revere's Ride," and "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere." These poems are renowned for their vivid imagery and profound exploration of themes such as history, folklore, and patriotism. Longfellow's ability to craft melodious verses with evocative imagery is truly remarkable.

Furthermore, alongside his poetic masterpieces, Longfellow's collection offers readers a glimpse into his interests and literary tastes through his prose writings. Essays on topics like Shakespeare, Dante, and the translation of poetry provide a deeper understanding of Longfellow's unique perspective and shed light on the influences that shaped his own writing.

One of the highlights of this collection is Longfellow's longer narrative poems, which take readers on immersive journeys through various time periods and cultures. These captivating works offer tales of adventure, romance, and heroism, showcasing Longfellow's talent for storytelling in all its depth and beauty.

In conclusion, this comprehensive collection of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's writings exemplifies his exceptional talent and the vast range of his works. Whether you are an avid fan of classical poetry or are just discovering Longfellow's remarkable oeuvre, this collection serves as an excellent starting point. With its rich assortment of poems, prose, and longer narrative pieces, readers are bound to be captivated by the timeless appeal and lyrical charm of Longfellow's writing.

What are readers saying?

The collection of poetry titled "Henry Wadsworth Longfellow" showcases the works of the esteemed American poet of the same name. Reviews from readers exhibit a range of perspectives and opinions on Longfellow's writings.

Some readers commend Longfellow's lyrical style and his ability to craft vivid imagery through his poems. They appreciate his knack for capturing emotions and exploring themes such as love, nature, and patriotism. These individuals find his writing elegant, timeless, and captivating, with numerous iconic quotes and verses. They believe that Longfellow's works have withstood the test of time and continue to resonate with readers today.

Conversely, there are reviewers who criticize Longfellow's poetry as outdated and clichéd. They assert that his language and themes are antiquated and lack the depth and complexity of more contemporary poetry. These readers perceive his writing as overly sentimental and lacking originality. While acknowledging the popularity of his works in the past, they argue that Longfellow's poetry fails to capture the same appeal in today's world.

Furthermore, some reviewers express their dissatisfaction with the structure and pacing of Longfellow's poems. They find his verses to be excessively long and repetitive, diminishing the impact of his message. These readers believe that his poems would benefit from more concise and focused writing, as well as a greater variety in form and structure.

However, there are also readers who recognize and appreciate the historical context and cultural significance of Longfellow's poetry. They view his works as a reflection of the era in which he lived, providing valuable insights into American history and culture. These readers admire Longfellow for popularizing poetry and making it accessible to a wider audience.

LongfellowPoetry AmericanLiterature ClassicReads