The McGraw-Hill Book of Poetry : Book Review

"The McGraw-Hill Book of Poetry" by Robert DiYanni is an extraordinary anthology that showcases the timeless essence of poetry. It encompasses a wide range of time periods and styles, making it a comprehensive collection. Renowned educator and literary scholar, Robert DiYanni, carefully curates poems from both classic and contemporary poets, resulting in a diverse and captivating compilation. The anthology is organized thematically, providing readers with an easy way to explore various themes and subjects within the realm of poetry.

One of the remarkable aspects of this anthology is DiYanni's inclusion of a broad spectrum of poets. From well-known figures like Emily Dickinson, Langston Hughes, and William Shakespeare to lesser-known voices, the collection presents a refreshing variety. This allows readers to immerse themselves in the works of different poets and appreciate the diverse approaches to poetic expression.

Each theme in the anthology is accompanied by an informative introduction, offering readers essential context and background information. These introductions help deepen the understanding and interpretation of the poems, enhancing the overall reading experience. By providing insight into each poet's intentions, readers can fully appreciate the nuances and significance of the included works.

DiYanni meticulously arranges and sequences the poems throughout the anthology, creating a seamless and engaging flow. Each poem is placed thoughtfully, allowing for connections and common threads to emerge among the collection. While appreciating each piece individually, readers can also observe the larger themes and connections that span across the anthology.

In conclusion, "The McGraw-Hill Book of Poetry" is a meticulously curated anthology that celebrates the beauty and power of poetry. With its diverse selection of poets and themes, Robert DiYanni's book offers a rich and rewarding reading experience for both poetry enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. Whether one seeks to delve into the classics or discover contemporary voices, this anthology is an exceptional resource for anyone interested in the art of poetry.

What are readers saying?

"The McGraw-Hill Book of Poetry" by Robert DiYanni has garnered positive feedback from readers owing to its thoughtful curation and arrangement of poems from various time periods and styles. The anthology is commended for its comprehensive and diverse collection, although some critics argue that it falls short in representing contemporary poets and voices from underrepresented communities.

One aspect that resonates with readers is the book's organization. DiYanni skillfully arranges the poems thematically, facilitating easy navigation and enabling readers to discover poems that align with their interests or emotions. The themes encompass a broad spectrum of subjects, ranging from nature and love to war and social issues, resulting in a well-rounded reading experience.

Readers also value the variety of poems included in the anthology. DiYanni showcases the works of renowned poets like William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and Langston Hughes, while also shining a light on lesser-known poets. This diversity exposes readers to different writing styles and perspectives, enriching their literary journey.

Another noteworthy feature highlighted in the reviews is DiYanni's concise and insightful introductions to each poem. These introductions provide valuable background information and analysis, enhancing readers' understanding and appreciation of the poem's meaning and context.

However, some readers express disappointment at the anthology's lack of representation from contemporary poets. They feel that the collection heavily leans towards traditional and canonical poetry, neglecting the vibrant and diverse voices of modern poets. Additionally, readers suggest that the anthology could have included more works from poets belonging to underrepresented communities.

PoetryCollection McGrawHillPoetry BookOfPoetry