book reviews
Reviews of the best poetry books, collections and anthologies; discover poems and up-and-coming poets across all cultures, genres and themes.
"The Iliad" by Homer
Iliad Overview "The Iliad" is an epic poem attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest works of Western literature and a foundational text of Western civilization. The poem tells the story of the Trojan War, which lasted for ten years and was fought between the Greeks and the Trojans. The central character of the poem is Achilles, the greatest warrior among the Greeks, who becomes enraged with his commander, Agamemnon, and withdraws from the war. The poem is structured around a series of battles and duels between individual heroes on both sides, culminating in the death of Hector, the Trojan prince and greatest defender of Troy. The poem also explores themes of honor, glory, the will of the gods, and the nature of fate. "The Iliad" is notable for its use of elevated language and vivid imagery, as well as its complex characterization and exploration of moral ambiguity. It has been studied and interpreted for centuries and remains a touchstone of Western literature and culture.
By VIJAYSHARMA4 years ago in Poets
"A Clockwork Orange"
Clockwork Orange Summary "A Clockwork Orange" is a dystopian novel written by Anthony Burgess and published in 1962. The story takes place in a near-future society in which youth gangs roam the streets and commit acts of extreme violence. The novel's title refers to a fictional beverage that the protagonist, Alex, and his gang of "droogs" consume before carrying out their acts of "ultra-violence." The novel is narrated by Alex, a 15-year-old boy who leads a gang of four friends. Alex is highly intelligent and enjoys classical music, but he also has a violent streak and takes pleasure in inflicting pain on others. He and his gang commit a series of brutal crimes, including rape and murder, until Alex is eventually caught by the police. While in prison, Alex undergoes an experimental treatment designed to "cure" him of his violent tendencies. The treatment involves being injected with a drug that causes extreme nausea and paralysis while being forced to watch violent films. The idea behind the treatment is to create an aversion to violence in the subject's mind. The treatment is successful, but it also has unintended consequences. Alex becomes physically ill at the thought of violence, including the music he once loved. He is released from prison and finds that he is now unable to defend himself against those who seek revenge for his past crimes. The novel raises questions about free will, the nature of evil, and the morality of using aversion therapy to change a person's behavior. It was adapted into a highly controversial film by Stanley Kubrick in 1971, which sparked widespread debate and censorship due to its depiction of violence and sexual assault.
By VIJAYSHARMA4 years ago in Poets
The Top 10 Books You Must Read Before You Die
Introduction Reading is one of life's greatest pleasures, and the right book can transport you to another world, expand your knowledge, and leave a lasting impact. With so many books to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the top 10 books you must read before you die. These books are not only classics of literature, but they are also works that have stood the test of time and have something important to say about the human condition. Whether you're a lifelong book lover or just starting your reading journey, this list is sure to have something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the greatest literary treasures of all time.
By Robert Frost4 years ago in Poets
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"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson ragon Tattoo Overview. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is a novel written by Swedish author Stieg Larsson, first published in 2005. It is the first book in the Millennium series, which includes two other books: "The Girl Who Played with Fire" and "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets' Nest". The story follows Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist who has been recently convicted of libel, and Lisbeth Salander, a young, antisocial hacker with a traumatic past. Blomkvist is hired by Henrik Vanger, a wealthy industrialist, to investigate the disappearance of his niece, Harriet, over 40 years ago. Salander is also hired to assist Blomkvist with his investigation. As they delve deeper into the case, Blomkvist and Salander uncover a web of corruption, abuse, and violence that has been kept hidden for decades. They soon find themselves in grave danger as they get closer to the truth. The novel deals with themes such as violence against women, corruption, and misogyny, and it portrays a complex and often brutal society where justice is elusive. It has been praised for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and its unflinching portrayal of societal issues. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" has been adapted into multiple films and TV series, both in Sweden and in Hollywood, and it has become a cultural phenomenon, selling millions of copies worldwide and garnering critical acclaim.
By VIJAYSHARMA4 years ago in Poets
THE TALL TAIL OF THE TALKING ANIMAL
THE TALL TAIL OF THE TALKING ANIMAL Do you ever dream of a world where animals can talk? Well, it's not as impossible as it sounds. In this story, we'll be exploring the tall tail of the talking animal. This extraordinary creature has the ability to communicate with humans and understand their language! Read on to find out more about this mysterious and fascinating animal that can talk.
By Aneela Iram4 years ago in Poets
I will find you by Harlan Coben
"I Will Find You" by Harlan Coben is a gripping novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from the very first page. With its fast-paced plot, memorable characters, and unexpected twists and turns, it is easy to see why this book has become a bestseller.
By Afee Writes4 years ago in Poets
Fernando Pessoa, the fake poet who believed in the zodiac
His love was only one, named Ofélia, the life didn't manage to reach five in the number of decades and laughter - when it came out - was nervous, uncomfortable. He preferred to walk alone with himself, accompanied only by the anguish and sadness that he carried in his mind, in his chest, in his soul, perhaps the result of the zodiacal rulership. He was a Gemini with a Scorpio ascendant.
By Karina Sgarbi4 years ago in Poets
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"My Last Duchess" My Last Duchess" is a dramatic monologue written by Robert Browning, first published in 1842. The poem is set in Renaissance Italy and is narrated by a Duke who is showing off a portrait of his late wife, the Duchess, to a visitor. Through the Duke's words, the reader slowly learns about the relationship between the Duke and his wife, and what may have led to her demise. The Duke speaks of his late wife with a mix of pride and jealousy. He talks about her beauty, her sweet nature, and her ability to make everyone she met happy. However, he also hints at her supposed infidelities and her inability to be controlled by him. The Duke mentions how he was not able to prevent her from showing the same kindness and attention to others as she did to him, which ultimately led to her downfall. As the Duke continues to speak, it becomes clear that he is not just showing the portrait of his wife to the visitor, but also trying to assert his power and dominance over her. He implies that he may have had her killed, or at the very least, that he had her locked away or divorced her. The Duke's arrogance and possessiveness are palpable throughout the poem, making it a chilling portrait of a man who values power and control over love and kindness. Overall, "My Last Duchess" is a powerful exploration of human psychology, jealousy, and power dynamics in relationships. It is a masterful work of poetry that continues to captivate readers today. Browning's Life & Works
By VIJAYSHARMA4 years ago in Poets
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Jane Eyre Overview "Jane Eyre" is a novel by Charlotte Bronte, first published in 1847. The story follows the life of its eponymous protagonist, Jane Eyre, from her early years as an orphaned child to her adult life as a governess. The novel is divided into several parts, each of which details a different stage in Jane's life. The first part deals with her childhood at Gateshead Hall, where she is mistreated by her aunt and cousins before being sent away to Lowood School, a harsh institution for orphaned and destitute girls. At Lowood, Jane meets Helen Burns, who becomes her close friend and confidante. Jane also meets Mr. Brocklehurst, the cruel headmaster of the school, and Miss Temple, a kind teacher who takes an interest in Jane's education and well-being. After leaving Lowood, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with her employer, the brooding and mysterious Mr. Rochester. However, their relationship is threatened by a dark secret that Mr. Rochester is keeping hidden in his attic. The novel reaches its climax with the revelation of this secret and the subsequent events that lead Jane to leave Thornfield and embark on a new life. Throughout the novel, Jane grapples with questions of morality, class, and gender, and ultimately emerges as a strong, independent woman who refuses to compromise her principles or sacrifice her own happiness for the sake of societal expectations. "Jane Eyre" is widely regarded as a classic of English literature and has been adapted into numerous film, television, and stage productions. Its themes of self-discovery, feminism, and social justice continue to resonate with readers today.
By VIJAYSHARMA4 years ago in Poets
