Customer Reviews

The Strength of Poetry (Oxford Lectures)

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While some published reviews on this book (which began as a series of lectures) are cautiously mixed, presumably on account of the book's lack of a philosophical perspective on modernism, my own is a rave (simply look elsewhere for a philosophical perspective--anyway, such books are easier to find) . For anyone who loves poetry, especially poetry in its more sophisticated forms (as opposed to the all-too usual sloppiness of slam poetry), this book offers the opportunity to have a dialogue with a brilliant poet and critic. For anyone who approaches poetry with trepidation, this book may be enough to convert you. Fenton's ability to excel at both poetry and criticism is all too rare in today's climate of popular culture; moreover, he writes for a broad audience. Just as he did in Leonardo's Nephew, he brings the characters he discusses vividly to life (reminding me, always, of the best hagiographers), always taking a broad approach which never attempts to separate the poet from his/her work, and always working hands-on with the poetry itself. Sometimes, this leads him to extremely provocative territory (as with Plath). His is a captive audience. In summary, this is an engaging, witty book rich with insight.

If you enjoy this book, or are interested in it, I would also recommend reading Bruce Bawer's Prophets and Professors.

Fenton has put together a great collection of essays/lectures covering a wide variety of subjects. He has some great essays on Plath, Auden, Moore, among others. There are a few dull essays. Don't get me wrong, they are intelligently written, it is just that the subject matter is dull (for example, Wilfred Owen's juvenalia). But on the whole this is a great collection for all poetry lovers.