ENGL 373-01, Contemporary American Poetry, Spring 2002

Abstract

Twentieth century poetry has developed in response to many influences, including wars, political and social movements, the recognition of diverse cultural groups and their literatures, and innovations in critical theory. We will begin our discussion and exploration of this century’s poetry in America by reading from the work of two anthologies, each of which offers a focus on two divergent styles, symbolist and objectivist. We will move from that discussion into close scrutiny of collections by individual poets: the work of Stephen Dunn, who won the Pulitzer last year, Henri Cole, who will visit campus in April, a young “language” poet, Matthea Harvey, Lia Purpura and Yusef Komunyakaa.