The Discovery of Poetry: A Field Guide to Reading and Writing Poems

Think of this as your personal poetry mentor in book form. Frances Mayes guides you through the craft of reading and writing poems with warmth and clarity, breaking down everything from metre and metaphor to imagery and voice. It's packed with examples from classic and contemporary poets, practical exercises, and that rare gift—making poetry feel accessible without dumbing it down. Perfect for aspiring poets, creative writing students, or anyone who's ever wanted to truly understand what makes a poem sing.