Contemporary American Poetry: Behind the Scenes

by Ryan G. Van Cleave

Contemporary American Poetry is an anthology featuring generous poetry selections from highly-respected and up-and-coming writers, chosen and commented upon by the writers themselves. KEY TOPICS: In straightforward, conversational language, each poet provides original commentary that reveals the aesthetic and artistic choices they made in their creation. Along with advice and exercises on the craft of poetry-writing, these...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0321095782
• ISBN13: 9780321095787
• Release Date: October 2002
• Publisher: Pearson
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

Wonderful

the BEST tool for anyone teaching creative writing class or leading a workshop. Great poems by some of the best poets of our time such as Billy Collins, Robert Bly and Stephen Dunn. However, it's the writing exercises and the essays that really make this book wonderful. I can't stress it enough, no matter where you are in your writing career, you'll find this book extremely useful.

great

Great Book!! Got it for a poetic technique class and when I was runnig low on ideas for my own writing I could always turn to this book. I could read poetry of great authors, excerpts by the authors about writing or do related exercises. No matter what there was always inspiration.

Great Book for Beginners

If you are only beginning to write poetry and desire to write with skill, this compilation by Ryan Van Cleave is a worthy investment. It offers specific techniques advocated by many revered poets of our time, including Adrian Louis, Kim Addonizio, Ron Wallace, and Virgil Suarez. Although the writing suggestions are a bit elementary, the poems within are some of the finest of our time. Each page offers variety. It also introduces poetry that is otherwise extremely hard to find by extremely talented contemporary poets.

Great for reference, inspiration, or just a good read

This anthology includes various poems by poets who may not be accessible to the average reader. Each poet provides his or her take on the craft of writing to inspire the reader and help unfold the mystery of poetry. This collection is definitely worth the time and money.