Poetry Handbook
For Readers and Writers
📘 About This Book
This poetry handbook is for anyone interested in poetry today - members of poetry workshops, students, or individuals at home. It covers traditional metres, sound patterns and forms but its emphasis is strongly on the more difficult questions of the rhythm, sound and shape of contemporary poetry. It discusses poetry's content and scope, poetry in society: both in Britain and by way of contrast, revolutionary Nicaragua. This is followed by a chapter on translating poetry. The conclusion makes some suggestions about where to look or go for poetry in Britain today.
📖 Summary
Dinah Livingstone's Poetry Handbook, published in 1992, serves as an essential companion for anyone deeply interested in the landscape of poetry today. Spanning 180 pages, the book is thoughtfully designed to cater to a diverse audience, including members of community poetry workshops, academic students, and solitary individuals exploring verse at home. Rather than merely cataloging historical rules, Livingstone bridges the gap between classical technique and modern expression. While the handbook dutifully covers traditional metres, intricate sound patterns, and established poetic forms, its true heart lies in tackling the more elusive and difficult questions surrounding contemporary poetry. The text delves deeply into the mechanics of rhythm, sound, and visual shape, offering readers a sophisticated understanding of how modern verse achieves its emotional and intellectual impact. Beyond technical craftsmanship, the book broadens its scope to examine poetry's thematic content and its vital role within society. In a fascinating comparative exploration, Livingstone investigates poetry's social function both in Britain and, by way of striking contrast, in revolutionary Nicaragua, illustrating how political and cultural environments shape poetic voice and purpose. Furthermore, the handbook addresses the delicate art of translating poetry, providing practical insights into rendering verse from one language into another while preserving its inner spirit and cadence. The journey concludes with helpful suggestions and practical guidance on where readers can actively look or go to find, engage with, and participate in the vibrant poetry scene in Britain today. Through this comprehensive approach, Livingstone demystifies the poetic craft, encouraging readers to engage critically and creatively with the written word.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Covers both traditional techniques and contemporary challenges
Offers a unique comparative perspective on poetry in society
Includes practical chapters on translating poetry
Provides helpful guidance on finding poetry communities in Britain
⚠️ Cons
May focus too heavily on the British and Nicaraguan contexts for some international readers
Published in 1992, so its resource guide for poetry scenes is somewhat dated
✍️ About the Author
❓ FAQ
Who is the author of Poetry Handbook? +
The book was written by Dinah Livingstone.
When was Poetry Handbook published? +
It was published in 1992.
How many pages long is the book? +
The handbook spans 180 pages.
What unique cultural comparison does the book explore? +
It contrasts the role of poetry in British society with its function in revolutionary Nicaragua.
Who is the primary audience for this book? +
It is intended for workshop members, students, and anyone at home interested in contemporary poetry.
