First published 1947
Cleanth Brooks' seminal work, "The Well Wrought Urn," takes readers on a captivating exploration of poetic structure. Through close readings of classic poems, Brooks illuminates the intricate web of imagery, rhythm, and symbolism that elevates verse to an art form. Wielding his keen critical eye, he unveils the hidden mechanics that power some of literature's most revered works, from Donne's metaphysical conceits to Wordsworth's natural landscapes. With each chapter, Brooks draws the reader deeper into the technical mastery that distinguishes great poetry, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the craft that lies beneath the surface.
Genres: literary-criticism, 20th-century, poetry, criticism, art-history, academic
Vibes: intimate, lyrical, thought-provoking
Tropes: academic, literary-analysis
Period: 20th-century
207 pages · Hardcover · Dennis Dobson