Michael J. Bugeja

Essentially, a course on poetry in a book. I found that the vast exemplars which Bugeja cited were extremely helpful in delineating the various forms, and styles, of poetry. There is much to be garnished here and this book, undoubtedly, has increased my knowledge, appreciation, and toolkit of poetry. I think that it is a great book for poets at all stages to remind, inform, and reinforce the rules of craft that are described, and detailed, here.

5 stars- well worth it.

The main thrust of this book is idea generation for poems. Then you begin writing in different poetic formats. You don't learn how to write by reading how to write, you learn by writing itself. This is the best practical instruction book on writing poetry that I have ever seen.

Tools, formats, and popular genres--all may be found in this tome about putting poetic ponderings down with paper and pen. Excellent examples from the living and the dead, and a great guidebook for every budding poet.

Bugeja goes through the actual craft elements of poetry through examples of his own and other poets. It is a very valuable resourse, and guide.