"The Norton Anthology of Poetry: Shorter Fifth Edition" is a remarkable compilation of poetry curated by Margaret Ferguson. This revised edition offers an extensive and diverse selection of poems that spans across different periods and cultures, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of the evolution of poetry throughout history.
What sets this anthology apart is its inclusion of renowned poets such as William Shakespeare and Emily Dickinson, alongside contemporary voices like Maya Angelou and Billy Collins. By showcasing poems from ancient times to the modern era, readers have the opportunity to witness the various styles, themes, and techniques employed by poets throughout the ages.
An exceptional feature of this anthology is its thoughtful organization. The poems are arranged thematically, allowing readers to immerse themselves in specific topics or delve deep into poetry from a particular era. With sections covering a wide range of themes including love, nature, war, and social issues, this anthology presents a well-rounded representation of human experiences and emotions.
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Each section is accompanied by informative introductions, providing readers with historical context, biographical information about the poets, and insights into the overall themes of the poems. This additional information helps readers understand the significance and relevance of the poems within their respective time periods.
Overall, "The Norton Anthology of Poetry: Shorter Fifth Edition" is a well-organized and comprehensive collection that offers a broad range of poetic voices and themes. It serves as an invaluable resource for poetry enthusiasts, students, and anyone seeking to explore the power and beauty of verse throughout history. Margaret Ferguson's curation provides readers with a remarkable opportunity to appreciate the rich tapestry of poetry and its enduring impact on the world.
What are readers saying?
The Norton Anthology of Poetry Shorter Fifth Edition, edited by Margaret Ferguson, has received a range of reviews that highly praise its comprehensive selection of poems spanning various time periods and literary movements. Readers appreciate the anthology's breadth and depth, finding it to be a valuable resource for both poetry enthusiasts and students.
One recurring theme in the reviews is the excellence of Margaret Ferguson's editorial work. Readers commend her for organizing the poems in a logical and well-structured manner, which allows for easy navigation and exploration of different themes. Ferguson's introductions to each section are also highly regarded, providing insightful context and analysis that enhance the reading experience.
The quality and diversity of the included poems are frequently mentioned in the reviews. Readers appreciate the wide range of voices represented, from canonical poets like Shakespeare and Wordsworth to modern and contemporary poets. The anthology's inclusion of poems from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives is also commended, as it allows readers to explore the rich tapestry of global poetry.
Many reviewers highlight that The Norton Anthology of Poetry Shorter Fifth Edition is a valuable educational resource. Students in particular find it helpful for studying poetry in academic settings, as the comprehensive selection of poems covers various literary movements and styles. The inclusion of footnotes and annotations for challenging poems is praised for aiding comprehension and analysis.
Some reviewers do note that the physical size and weight of the book can be cumbersome. While this does not affect the quality of the poems or the content, it may be a consideration for readers who prefer a more portable or compact edition.
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