The Giant Book of Poetry
📘 About This Book
Winner or finalist in the Best Books National Book Award Poetry Anthology of the Year; Benjamin Franklin Audio Book of the Year; Foreword Magazine Audio Book of the Year; and the Bill Fisher Award for Best New Fiction. Over 750 pages of poetry spanning from 4,000 BC up to the present day and including a broad cross-section of global poetry. Footnotes for each poem specify each poem's form, define unusual or archaic words, and include notes about interpretation. Multiple indexes, including an index by subject, simplify finding exactly the right poem for any situation. The poems were specifically selected to appeal to readers new to poetry, but even experienced poetry readers will find new and enjoyable poems. The poems from the book are also available on audio CD.
📖 Summary
William Roetzheim has curated an exceptionally comprehensive and celebrated literary collection in The Giant Book of Poetry, published in 2014. Spanning over 750 pages, this massive volume serves as an expansive portal into the world of verse, bringing together a rich tapestry of human expression that reaches all the way from 4000 BC right up to the modern era. Designed to be much more than a passive compilation of famous lines, the anthology offers a truly global cross-section of poetry, ensuring that readers are exposed to diverse voices, traditions, and cultural perspectives across millennia. What truly sets this collection apart is its thoughtful pedagogical framework and user-friendly design, which were specifically crafted to welcome readers who might otherwise feel intimidated by the genre. Every single poem in the book is accompanied by detailed footnotes. These helpful annotations do not merely define unusual or archaic words to clear up linguistic roadblocks; they also explicitly specify each poem's structural form and provide insightful notes on interpretation, guiding the reader toward a deeper understanding of the author's craft and intent. For seasoned poetry enthusiasts, the sheer breadth of the selection guarantees the discovery of fresh, delightful pieces that may have previously escaped their notice. Navigating this vast ocean of literature is made remarkably easy through multiple indexes, including a comprehensive subject index that allows readers to pinpoint the exact poem suited for any specific mood, occasion, or emotional situation. Furthermore, the accessibility of the collection is amplified by the availability of its contents on audio CD, catering to auditory learners and those who prefer to experience the lyrical cadence of verse spoken aloud. The high quality and exceptional reception of this anthology are underscored by its impressive list of accolades, having been a winner or finalist in prestigious programs such as the Best Books National Book Award Poetry Anthology of the Year, the Benjamin Franklin Audio Book of the Year, the Foreword Magazine Audio Book of the Year, and the Bill Fisher Award. Ultimately, The Giant Book of Poetry stands as a monumental achievement in literary curation, bridging the gap between ancient history and contemporary life while remaining profoundly accessible to poetry novices and seasoned aficionados alike.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Spans an impressive historical timeline from 4,000 BC to the present day.
Includes helpful footnotes explaining poetic forms, unusual words, and interpretations.
Features multiple indexes, including a subject index for easy navigation.
Winner or finalist of several prestigious awards, including the National Book Award Poetry Anthology of the Year.
⚠️ Cons
The sheer size and length of a 750-plus page book may feel physically heavy or daunting to carry around.
Readers looking exclusively for modern or contemporary poetry will find a large portion of the book dedicated to older historical eras.
❓ FAQ
What time period does The Giant Book of Poetry cover? +
The book spans from 4,000 BC up to the present day, offering a sweeping historical overview of verse.
Are the poems difficult to understand for beginners? +
Not at all. The poems were specifically selected to appeal to readers new to poetry, and helpful footnotes provide interpretation notes and define archaic words.
Does the book include international poetry? +
Yes, the volume includes a broad cross-section of global poetry representing diverse traditions.
How can I find a poem for a specific topic? +
The book features multiple indexes, including a subject index, designed to help you quickly find the right poem for any situation.
Is an audio version available? +
Yes, the poems from the book are also available on audio CD.
