What Is It Then Between Us?: Traditions of Love in American Poetry : Book Review

"What Is It, Then, Between Us?" by Eric Murphy Selinger is a captivating exploration of the enduring power of poetry within the realm of love and relationships. This collection of essays, written by various authors, scholars, and poets, delves into the influential role that poetry plays in shaping our emotions and understanding of love.

The book emphasizes how poetry has the unique ability to capture and express the complexity of human emotions, particularly those associated with love and desire. Through examples from different time periods and cultures, Selinger illustrates the universal nature of this art form, showcasing its ability to transcend both time and space.

One of the key themes highlighted in the book is the idea that poetry serves as a vehicle for personal exploration. It offers solace and understanding during times of heartbreak or confusion, while also allowing readers to connect with the experiences and emotions of poets from different eras and cultures.

The essays in the book cover a wide range of perspectives on love and poetry, delving into themes such as longing, loss, desire, and the power of language. The contributors provide insightful analysis and interpretation of various poems, shedding light on their deeper meanings and exploring the ways in which they resonate with readers. The book also explores the role of gender, sexuality, and identity in relation to love and poetry, offering a diverse and inclusive perspective.

In addition to celebrating the beauty and power of poetry, Selinger's book challenges conventional notions of love and relationships. It encourages readers to embrace the emotional and intellectual depths that poetry can offer, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the timeless themes it explores.

What are readers saying?

Eric Murphy Selinger's book "What Is It Then Between Us: Poetry & the Meanings of Love" has garnered a mixed response from readers. Some readers commend the book for its profound exploration of love and poetry. They find Selinger's analysis to be thought-provoking and enlightening, offering a fresh perspective on the subject. The book strikes a balance between academic analysis and personal reflection, captivating and relatable to its audience. Many readers appreciate Selinger's evident passion for poetry, making it a worthwhile read for anyone intrigued by the connection between poetry and love.

However, not all readers share the same sentiment. Some find the book excessively academic and inaccessible. They criticize Selinger's dense writing style, filled with unnecessary jargon, which hinders comprehension and connection with the material. These readers argue that a more approachable and straightforward approach would have better suited the book, especially considering its focus on love and poetry.

Furthermore, certain reviewers note that the book demonstrates bias in its selection of poets and poems, neglecting other significant voices in the genre. They believe that Selinger's analysis is narrow in scope and could have been more inclusive by encompassing a wider range of perspectives.

Despite these criticisms, many readers acknowledge the value of "What Is It Then Between Us" in providing profound insights into the intricacies of love and the power of poetry. They appreciate Selinger's examination of various forms of love and their portrayal in poetry, finding it to be a thought-provoking and enlightening read.

In summary, "What Is It Then Between Us" by Eric Murphy Selinger delves deep into the relationship between poetry and love. While some readers find the book excessively academic and limited in scope, others appreciate its insightful analysis and personal reflections. If you have an interest in the subject matter, it is worth considering giving this book a read.

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