The Poet's Companion: A Guide to the Pleasures of Writing Poetry

by Addonizio, Kim; Laux, Dorianne

• ISBN13: 9780393316544
• ISBN10: 0393316548
• eBook ISBN(s): 9780393340884
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1997-09-17
• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• More Book Details

About This Book

The Poet's Companion: A Guide to the Pleasures of Writing Poetry

ISBN: 9780393316544

The Poet's Companion is a comprehensive guide to the art of writing poetry, designed for both beginners and experienced poets. Written by Kim Addonizio and Dorianne Laux, this book offers a wealth of information on the elements of poetry, techniques, and suggested subjects for writing. It provides brief essays on various aspects of poetry, followed by distinctive writing exercises to help readers hone their craft.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in poetry writing classes, workshops, and individual writing groups. It is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving their poetry skills, including professional writers looking to refresh their knowledge or expand their understanding of poetic techniques.

History and Editions

The Poet's Companion was first published on September 17, 1997, by W. W. Norton & Company. This edition has been a staple in the literary world for over two decades, offering insights and practical advice that have stood the test of time. The book's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to guide readers through the ups and downs of writing life, including self-doubt and writer's block.

Author and Other Works

Kim Addonizio is a renowned poet and author known for her innovative and engaging writing style. Dorianne Laux is also a celebrated poet and educator, recognized for her ability to inspire and guide writers. Both authors bring their extensive experience and expertise to the text, ensuring that it remains current and relevant.

Key Features

• Elements of Poetry: The book covers essential elements of poetry, including form, structure, imagery, and more.
• Writing Exercises: Each chapter includes practical writing exercises designed to help readers apply theoretical knowledge to their own writing.
• Inspiration and Motivation: The authors address common challenges faced by writers, offering tips on overcoming self-doubt and staying motivated.
• Publishing Tips: The book provides guidance on getting published in the electronic age, making it a valuable resource for aspiring poets.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

• Hardcover: ISBN-13: 9780393316544
• eBook: ISBN-13: 9780393340884
• eBook: ISBN-13: (Additional e-book ISBNs not specified by the authors or publishers)

Publication Details

• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• Publication Date: September 17, 1997
• Number of Pages: 288 pages
• Language: English
• Dimensions: 8.32" L x 5.54" W x 0.83" H

Other Editions and Formats

While there are no additional print or digital editions specified by the authors or publishers, the book remains widely available in both hardcover and eBook formats.

Related ISBNs:

• eBook: ISBN-13: 9780393340884

This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for The Poet's Companion, making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.

Author Biography

Dorianne Laux is associate professor of creative writing at the University of Oregon.

Table of Contents

Introduction	p. 11
Subjects for Writing
Writing and Knowing	p. 19
The Family: Inspiration and Obstacle	p. 30
Death and Grief	p. 39
Writing the Erotic	p. 46
The Shadow	p. 56
Witnessing	p. 64
Poetry of Place	p. 74
The Poet's Craft
Images	p. 85
Simile and Metaphor	p. 94
The Music of the Line	p. 104
Voice and Style	p. 115
Stop Making Sense: Dreams and Experiments	p. 129
Meter, Rhyme, and Form	p. 138
Repetition, Rhythm, and Blues	p. 151
More Repetition: Villanelle, Pantoum, Sestina	p. 161
A Grammatical Excursion	p. 171
The Energy of Revision	p. 186
The Writing Life
Self-Doubt	p. 195
Writer's Block	p. 199
Writing in the Electronic Age	p. 204
Getting Published	p. 217
Twenty-Minute Writing Exercises	p. 225
Books on Poetry and Writing	p. 257
Anthologies for Further Reading	p. 261
Finding Markets for Your Poems	p. 266
More Resources for Writers	p. 267
Credits	p. 272
Index	p. 277
Table of Contents provided by Blackwell. All Rights Reserved.