The Poet's Companion

A Guide to the Pleasures of Writing Poetry

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by Kim Addonizio and Dorianne Laux

W. W. Norton and Co.

Due/Published August 1997, 256 pages, paper

ISBN 0393316548

From the nuts and bolts of craft to the sources of inspiration, this book is for anyone who wants to write poetry - and do it well. Brief essays on the elements of poetry, technique, and suggested subjects for writing are each followed by distinctive writing exercises. ("Compare an actual family photograph with one that was never taken, but might have been.") The ups and downs of the writing life - including self-doubt and writer's block - are here, along with tips about getting published and writing in the electronic age. On your own, this book can be your "teacher," while groups, in or out of the classroom, can profit from sharing weekly assignments.