Results: 4248 books
Sort By:
NewTrending

Rhymes and Meters - A Practical Manual for Versifiers

Horatio Winslow

"Rhymes and Meters" by Horatio Winslow is a practical manual for versifiers written in the early 20th century. This instructional book provides a comprehensive guide for those looking to improve their ability to write verse, distinguishing between various forms and techniques of metrical composition. It focuses on the fundamentals of verse construction, rhyme, and meter, aiming to enhance both the novice and experienced writer's understanding of the craft. The book covers a broad spectrum of topics essential to versification, beginning with the general principles of verse making and moving through specific aspects such as meter, rhyme, and stanza forms. Winslow explains the different types of feet in English meter, introduces various poetic forms like the sonnet, ballade, and modern song, and emphasizes the importance of clarity, simplicity, and correctness in verse construction. Each chapter builds on the idea that writing verse is a skill that can be learned and perfected through practice, encouraging readers to engage with both their own writing and the works of established poets to foster their abilities. Winslow's thorough exploration of verse-making serves as a valuable resource for aspiring poets and literary enthusiasts alike. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 98, March 29, 1890

Various

"Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 98, March 29, 1890" by Various is a periodical publication showcasing the blend of humor, satire, and commentary on contemporary British society during the late 19th century. As a representative of the iconic British satire magazine, this volume features a collection of comic illustrations, humorous articles, and plays that reflect the cultural and social dynamics of its time. The overarching topic of the book encompasses social critiques, political commentary, and a humorous portrayal of everyday life, encapsulating the spirit of British humor. This particular volume includes segments such as "Mr. Punch's Moral Music-Hall Dramas," which presents a melodramatic comedy set in a fictional setting, exploring themes of social class and personal integrity through characters like Sir Poshbury Puddock and the unscrupulous adventurer Spiker. Interspersed throughout the content are various comic poems and commentary on national events, such as the coal strike, and the concerns of political engagement and social justice. The book captures moments of humor while addressing serious societal issues, highlighting the tension between prevailing norms and changing attitudes in Victorian society. As a whole, this collection serves both as entertainment and as a reflection of the cultural landscape of the time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Opera nova amorosa, vol. 1 - Strambotti, sonetti, capitoli, epistole et una disperata

Napolitano Notturno

"Opera nova amorosa, vol. 1" by Napolitano Notturno is a collection of poetic works written in the early 16th century. The book consists of various forms of poetry, including sonnets, epistles, and strambotti, focusing on the themes of love, passion, and the torment it can invoke. The text reflects the emotional struggles of the speaker as they confront the complexities of romantic relationships. In this volume, the author explores the depths of love's joy and pain through passionate pleas and vivid imagery. The poetry often presents a tortured soul mired in despair, lamenting the cruelty of the beloved and the gods while longing for understanding and forgiveness. Filled with heartfelt expressions, the work illustrates a deep emotional narrative that vacillates between hope and hopelessness, celebrating the beauty of love even amidst its heart-wrenching challenges. As a rich portrayal of desire and devotion, "Opera nova amorosa" engages the reader in an introspective journey through the multifaceted nature of love. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Hound of Heaven

Francis Thompson

"The Hound of Heaven" by Francis Thompson is a profound poem composed in the late 19th century, noted for its intricate exploration of the soul's relationship with God. This work is a testament to Thompson's skill as a mystic poet, grappling with themes of divine love, human willfulness, and spiritual pursuit. The poem is characterized by Thompson's rich language and vivid imagery, reflecting the religious intensity of the Victorian era. In "The Hound of Heaven," the narrator depicts their futile attempt to escape the relentless pursuit of divine love, personified as a hound. The poem chronicles a spiritual journey marked by evasion and fear, wherein the speaker tries to hide from God among the distractions of life and fleeting human affections. Yet, despite their attempts to flee—running through the labyrinth of their own mind and into the arms of nature or other loves—God's presence remains inescapable. Ultimately, the poem reveals the paradox of divine love: while it can seem overwhelmingly demanding, it is also profoundly nurturing, waiting for the soul to embrace it fully. The realization dawns that true fulfillment lies not in evasion but in surrendering to this relentless love, inviting readers to reflect on their own spiritual paths. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Happy Days for Boys and Girls

Various

"Happy Days for Boys and Girls" by Various is a collection of children’s stories and poems written in the late 19th century. This anthology features a diverse range of contributions from well-known authors such as Louisa M. Alcott and C.A. Stephens, with narratives that engage young readers with themes of adventure, childhood, morality, and nature. The collection is designed to entertain and educate, promoting virtues and delightful tales that resonate with the imaginations of boys and girls. The opening portion introduces the story "The Orchard's Grandmother," which sets the scene in an idyllic English garden more than two centuries ago, depicting an elderly grandmother and her young granddaughter, Polly. On a warm September day, they engage in light-hearted activities while bees buzz and swallows dart through the orchard. The grandmother encourages Polly to gather fruit for a tea party, leading to a whimsical exchange about apples and the peculiar desire to grow an apple tree from seeds. As the story unfolds, it hints at deeper themes of patience and care, weaving in historical context as Polly's father is pursued due to his loyalty to the king during a time of conflict. The narrative combines innocence with poignant moments as it foreshadows the challenges that lie ahead for Polly and her family. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Lord of Misrule, and Other Poems

Alfred Noyes

"The Lord of Misrule and Other Poems" by Alfred Noyes is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. The poems often delve into themes of nature, love, and the passage of time, using evocative imagery and a romantic style. The titular poem, "The Lord of Misrule," introduces a raucous celebration led by a figure that embodies the spirit of spring, contrasting with the solemnity of a church service. The opening of the collection sets a whimsical tone as it recounts a May morning when the Lord of Misrule and his merry followers burst into a church, disrupting a dull sermon with their exuberant revelry. The speaker describes the joyous chaos as they enter, dancing and singing, and how this celebration follows the spirit of spring and life. The joyous antics are countered by a reflection on the significance of love and revival embodied within nature's cycles, establishing a vibrant atmosphere that invites readers to appreciate the complexities of life and emotion. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Eidolon; or, The Course of a Soul; and Other Poems

Walter Richard Cassels

"Eidolon; or, The Course of a Soul; and Other Poems" by Walter Richard Cassels is a collection of poetry written in the mid-19th century. Through a series of allegorical pieces, the collection explores the journey of the poet's soul, touching on themes of beauty, love, solitude, and the struggle between idealism and reality. The primary narrative follows a character grappling with his own identity and purpose, seeking meaning in a complex world while reflecting on the essence of poetry and existence itself. The opening of "Eidolon" introduces us to a solitary figure contemplating his existence on a desert island, reflecting on the nature of thought and the burdens of worldly life. He wrestles with feelings of loneliness and misanthropy but is led to understand that true freedom and beauty come from within his own mind. The character transitions from despair to enlightenment, as the spirit of poetry ignites his soul, urging him to engage with life's realities rather than retreat into isolation. This stark yet lyrical exploration sets the tone for a poetic journey that delves into the depths of human emotion and aspiration. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Brownings, Their Life and Art

Lilian Whiting

"The Brownings, Their Life and Art" by Lilian Whiting is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the lives and artistic contributions of the celebrated poets Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, exploring their personal backgrounds, relationship, and the profound impact they had on literature. The opening of this biography introduces the Browning couple, highlighting the remarkable yet brief span of their shared life and artistic collaboration. It outlines Robert Browning's early influences and formative years, including his family's literary background and his poetic aspirations, as well as Elizabeth Barrett's childhood filled with beauty and her innate love for poetry. Lilian Whiting sets the stage for a detailed examination of their lives, emphasizing the exquisite romance and artistic synergy that defined their union, portraying their journey from individual artists to a poetic partnership that would leave a lasting legacy. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

A Father of Women, and Other Poems

Alice Meynell

"A Father of Women, and Other Poems" by Alice Meynell is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of loss, love, femininity, and the impacts of war, particularly reflecting on the emotional landscape of a world shaped by conflict. Meynell's work often intertwines personal introspection with broader observations on the human experience, particularly in the context of her time, which was marked by the struggle and sacrifice of World War I. The collection comprises various poems that convey deep feelings of mourning and remembrance, especially for those lost in battle. The titular poem "A Father of Women" addresses the enduring influence of fathers on their children, while other works, such as "Nurse Edith Cavell" and "Summer in England, 1914," reflect on the juxtaposition of beauty in nature against the backdrop of human suffering. Throughout the poems, Meynell employs rich imagery and emotive language to evoke a sense of both the fragility and resilience of life, ultimately encouraging readers to contemplate the profound connections between love, loss, and the passage of time. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 14

Robert Louise Stevenson

"The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 14" by Stevenson is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century. This volume features notable works such as "A Child's Garden of Verses," which captures the essence of childhood wonder through a series of poems that explore themes of imagination, nature, and the everyday experiences of children. The charm of Stevenson's language and his ability to evoke vivid imagery make it a delightful read for both children and adults alike. The opening of this volume introduces "A Child's Garden of Verses" with a heartfelt dedication to Alison Cunningham, Stevenson's nurse, who played a significant role during his childhood. The poems that follow reflect the thoughts of a child, illustrating the contrast between summer and winter experiences, the joys of playing by the seaside, and the simple pleasures of life through childlike eyes. Stevenson deftly captures the innocence and imagination inherent in childhood through playful verses about shadows, travel, and the mysterious allure of bedtime, setting a tone of nostalgia and warmth that resonates throughout the collection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Purple Cow!

Gelett Burgess

"The Purple Cow!" by Gelett Burgess is a whimsical poem that first gained popularity in the late 19th century, specifically during the 1890s. As a light-hearted work of children's literature, it embodies an imaginative and playful spirit. The poem humorously expresses the narrator's fanciful musings about a mythical purple cow, reflecting themes of uniqueness and the absurd. In this playful piece, the narrator shares their bemusement over the idea of a purple cow and expresses a desire to see such a creature. The poem concludes with a catchy twist, indicating a preference for witnessing a purple cow rather than becoming one themselves. Through its charming simplicity and catchy rhyme, "The Purple Cow!" captures the imagination of readers, inviting them to embrace the joy of whimsical thinking and the beauty of the fantastical over the mundane. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

In The Seven Woods: Being Poems Chiefly of the Irish Heroic Age

W. B. (William Butler) Yeats

"In The Seven Woods: Being Poems Chiefly of the Irish Heroic Age" by W. B. Yeats is a collection of poems created in the early 20th century. The book draws inspiration primarily from the Irish Heroic Age, exploring themes of mythology, love, and the complexities of human emotions. Yeats's work is imbued with rich imagery and a profound connection to Irish folklore, reflecting his passion for his cultural heritage. The poems within this collection are predominantly narrative and character-driven, often delving into the lives of legendary figures from Irish mythology, such as Queen Maeve and Cuchullain. Yeats weaves tales of love, loss, and the interplay between the mortal and the supernatural. The characters are portrayed with depth, highlighting their struggles and aspirations against the backdrop of a mythic Ireland. As the collection unfolds, readers encounter a vivid tapestry of emotions, from the heartache of unrequited love to the valor of legendary heroes, capturing the essence of human experience through the lens of ancient myth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Δ

Homer

"Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Δ" by Homer is an epic poem written in ancient times, likely during the 8th century BC. The narrative follows the journey of Odysseus as he seeks to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, grappling with various adversities, including the interference of gods and mythological creatures. The central characters in this section include Odysseus, his faithful wife Penelope, and their son Telemachus, who navigates the challenges posed by suitors vying for his mother's affection in his father's absence. The opening of this portion introduces tension within Odysseus’ household as he remains hidden among the suitors plaguing his home. Telemachus, aware of their unwanted presence, is instructed by the disguised Odysseus to keep his weapons safe. Meanwhile, Penelope expresses her sorrow over the loss of Odysseus and the pressure from her suitors, while simultaneously developing a cunning plan to delay remarrying by weaving a tapestry she unravels each night. As Penelope and Odysseus engage in conversation, the themes of loyalty, identity, and the prophetic power of dreams are highlighted, setting the stage for the tumultuous events to come. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Γ

Homer

"Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Γ" by Homer is an epic poem that was likely written in the 8th century BC. The narrative follows the central character Odysseus as he endeavors to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, facing numerous trials and challenges along the way. The themes of heroism, longing, and the interplay between fate and free will are central to the work. The opening of this volume introduces a scene where Odysseus arrives at the palace of Alcinous, the king of the Phaeacians, after numerous trials during his voyage. The narrative details the warm reception he receives, as Alcinous promises to help Odysseus return home. While Odysseus is grateful, he is also filled with longing for his homeland, reflecting on his past hardships and the treasures he now possesses. The text also hints at the tensions among the gods relating to Odysseus's journey, establishing a connection between the divine and mortal experiences that will unfold throughout the poem. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Β

Homer

"Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Β" by Homer is an epic poem written in ancient times, likely during the 8th century BC. This monumental work is the second volume of "The Odyssey," following the journey of Odysseus as he seeks to return home after the Trojan War. The poem explores themes of heroism, fate, and the struggles of both divine and mortal beings. The main character is Odysseus, a clever and resilient hero navigating immense challenges with the help and interference of various gods. The opening of this volume introduces a pivotal moment in Odysseus's journey as he reaches the shores of the Phaeacians, a seafaring people. With the guidance of Athena, he approaches the palace of King Alcinous, entering a city filled with wonders. Here, he receives a warm welcome and is soon seated at a banquet among the Phaeacian nobles, who are intrigued by his presence. The narrative sets the stage for deeper explorations of his past exploits and further developments in his quest for home, reflecting on themes of hospitality and the longing for one’s homeland. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Α

Homer

"Ομήρου Οδύσσεια Τόμος Α" by Homer is an epic poem written in ancient times, likely during the early classical period. This foundational work of Western literature recounts the adventures and struggles of Odysseus as he attempts to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, while facing numerous trials and tribulations. The poem explores themes of heroism, loyalty, and the influence of the divine, particularly through the character of Odysseus. The beginning of "Odyssia" introduces the audience to the main character, Odysseus, who is held captive by the nymph Calypso on a remote island. The narrative opens with a hymn to the Muse, requesting inspiration to tell the tale of Odysseus, described as a "man of many ways" who has faced countless hardships. As the plot unfolds, we learn that while Odysseus longs to return to his homeland and reunite with his wife Penelope, the god Poseidon opposes him due to a past grievance. The goddess Athena, sympathetic to Odysseus's plight, seeks to intervene and ensure his return while also addressing the troubles Ithaca faces in his absence, including the predatory suitors vying for Penelope's hand. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 90, April, 1865 - A Magazine of Literature, Art, and Politics

Various

"The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 90, April 1865" by Various is a literary magazine written in the mid-19th century. This edition offers a diverse selection of essays, poems, and stories that reflect the social, artistic, and political milieu of the time, with a focus on themes relevant to the era, including the experiences of women, reflections on war, and the evolving landscape of American identity. At the start of this edition, the narrative follows Miselle, a determined young woman embarking on a solo journey to the oil regions of Pennsylvania. Her adventurous spirit leads her through challenging travels from Boston to Corry, where she encounters a host of colorful characters and experiences the striking contrasts between urban and rural America during the oil boom. Her resolve is tested by unpredictable transportation conditions, social interactions with locals, and reflections on the changing environment around her, setting the stage for further explorations of both the physical and metaphorical landscapes shaped by the era's rapid industrialization and societal changes. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Collected Poems: Volume Two

Alfred Noyes

"Collected Poems: Volume Two" by Alfred Noyes is a collection of poetry likely written in the early 20th century. This volume showcases a range of themes including nature, love, death, and the human experience, reflecting the depth of emotion and observation characteristic of Noyes’s work. Each poem captures moments of beauty, longing, and reflection, making this anthology a diverse exploration of poetic thought. The opening of the collection features several poems, starting with "Mist in the Valley," which describes a contemplative journey through a mist-bound landscape, evoking feelings of solitude and introspection. This is followed by "A Song of the Plough," a vivid depiction of the life of ploughmen against the backdrop of nature's cycles, and "The Banner," which speaks to the enduring spirit of hope and renewal. Each piece uses rich imagery and rhythmic language to convey deep emotions and observations about life, setting the stage for the overarching themes that Noyes continues to explore throughout the volume. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Kipling Stories and Poems Every Child Should Know, Book II

Rudyard Kipling

"Kipling Stories and Poems Every Child Should Know, Book II" by Rudyard Kipling is a collection of narratives and poems intended for children, likely compiled in the late 19th century. This anthology includes selections from Kipling's various works, celebrating the richness of storytelling and the art of poetry in a manner suitable for younger readers. The collection introduces characters and tales that revolve around familiar themes, allowing children to engage with morality and adventure in a playful and imaginative context. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to the character Punch and his interactions with his family and caregivers as they prepare for a journey that will take them away from their home in India. Punch, a cheeky and lively young boy, is eagerly anticipating the travels that lie ahead but also grapples with the bittersweet feelings of leaving behind his beloved ayah and friends. The narrative captures the innocence of childhood as Punch expresses his longing and excitement, while foreshadowing the challenges and adventures that will come with their new life. The opening sets the stage for a whimsical exploration of youth, familial love, and the poignant themes of separation and belonging, inviting readers to delve deeper into Kipling's charming prose and poetry. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Collected Poems: Volume One

Alfred Noyes

"Collected Poems: Volume One" by Alfred Noyes is a compilation of poetry written in the early 20th century. The collection showcases Noyes's lyrical talent and includes a variety of themes and styles, drawing on nature, love, and nostalgia. Across his poems, readers can expect to encounter vivid imagery and profound emotional resonance, inviting reflection on both personal experiences and universal truths. At the start of the volume, the poem "The Loom of Years" sets a contemplative tone, exploring the interplay of time and existence through the metaphor of a weaver creating a complex web of life experiences. The subsequent piece, "In the Heart of the Woods," delves into the themes of love and eternity, presenting a mystical connection between nature and human emotions. Throughout these opening poems, Noyes emphasizes the beauty and transience of life, evoking a sense of wonder about the natural world while inviting readers to ponder the deeper meanings behind the fleeting moments that make up our existence. (This is an automatically generated summary.)