Description
A wonderfully readable anthology of our greatest poetry, chosen by the author of A Little History of Poetry
“Does anyone know more about poetry than John Carey? Almost certainly not.”-The Times
A poem seems a fragile thing. Change a word and it is broken. But poems outlive empires and survive the devastation of conquests. Celebrated author John Carey here presents a uniquely valuable anthology of verse based on a simple principle: select the one-hundred greatest poets from across the centuries, and then choose their finest poems.
Ranging from Homer and Sappho to Donne and Milton, Plath and Angelou, this is a delightful and accessible introduction to the very best that poetry can offer. Familiar favorites are nestled alongside marvelous new discoveries-all woven together with Carey’s expert commentary. Particular attention is given to the works of female poets, like Christina Rossetti and Charlotte Mew. This is a personal guide to the poetry that shines brightest through the ages. Within its pages, readers will find treasured poems that remain with you for life.







The Best of Archy and Mehitabel
Hello, Mrs Elephant!
Red Devon
Steep Tea
Comic Poems
The Mystical Rose
Phrases Towards a Kinepoetics
Snaring Heaven
Heaven on Earth
Stowaway: A Levantine Adventure
Cherry Moon
This Is Yarrow
Floss
Book of Mercy
Words the Turtle Taught Me
Love Speaks Its Name: Gay and Lesbian Love Poems (Everyman Pocket Poets)