The Poetry Dictionary

by John Drury

Revised and updated, The Poetry Dictionary is the most comprehensive resource of poetry terms for any lover, teacher, or student of poetry. Author and poet John Drury gives clear, relevant definitions to the terms that all poets need to know and understand. In a friendly tone, with hundreds of classic and contemporary examples, Drury teaches concepts that will broaden and stimulate your creative process.

Genres: Poetry, Writing, Reference, Nonfiction

374 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

The Very Reverend John Henry Drury (born 23 May 1936), DD is an Anglican priest and author, Chaplain of All Souls College, Oxford since 2003.

Reviews

[Catherine Giordano]

I took a poetry class and the instructor recommended this book. I suppose it could be read straight through, but I prefer to either browse and see what term or topic serendipitiously pops up or look up something specific that I want to know more about. Everything is clearly explained and examples are often included. A very handy book for anyone interested in poetry.

[Carolyn Hembree]

It doesn't look cool. The title is not sexy. Some may not even think John Drury "sexy." And the publisher is -- ahem -- Writer's Digest Books. Don't be fooled. And this book is THE BOMB. For everybody from high school students to college students to practicing poets, Drury gives you thorough definitions and examples for all things poetry. He's never condescending, so don't think you're too grown for the Drury's PD: he'll throw that Greek mess at you. But he's also practical and NOT a purist. Yes, you get the Persian ghazal in its true form, but you also get the bastardized versions. Even some bastard Sapphics.

[Jan]

I enjoyed it. Though it wasn't quite as colorful as Lewis Turco's The Book of Forms, it had a greater variety of poets' work represented in the examples. Not many would read it cover to cover as I did. You might prefer to use it as a reference, but I needed the education. Besides, it was nice to read a dictionary again, as I used to like to when I was a child. Now I'll keep it as a reference.

[Jada]

its been a while since i've read a dictionary
this reminded me of some words i learnt years ago and had forgotten

[Greg Converse]

Very helpful in my bid to become the greatest unknown.

[Lyn]

Great explanations of the different poetic styles and reference book all poets should have on hand.