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The most sublime quality of Shakespeare's genius is his poetry - the greatest ever written in English, perhaps in any language - so a proper examination of his plays must begin with an examination of the poetry in them. In this rewarding volume, five chapters correspond to five main working periods, considering the three main elements in the poetry: the words, the rhythmical relationship of the words, and the use of metaphor and imagery - the subtlest feature of Shakespeare's individuality and genius. 'To the general reader, and to the playgoer wishing to revive his memories and whet his appetite before a visit to Stratford or the Old Vic, Mr Halliday's book can hardly be too highly recommended' Times Literary Supplement