Poetry Group

Hello all. So, some discussion was sparked in my introduction about poetry and I thought it might be an idea to get its own thread, and pursue things in a structured way. perhaps it would be nice for those who already have an interest in poetry, or study it, to have a little nook?

My idea was to have a timeframe, much like BotM, where a collection would be voted on, with some flexibility, of course. However, there could be different forms of structure if people wish, such as selecting a few meaningful pieces from a poet's works and discussing them, or even chosing a theme and finding a small selection of poems that address it in differing ways.

What say you?

I'm very happy to hear that! In terms of structure, how would you like to proceed? I've no problem at all with you tying it into your studies, so that you can be chomping through course texts. That way, you wouldn't be under the pressure of having extra books, and can be turning over some ideas in your own mind? Just a thought.

I'm perfectly happy to get my hands on any poetry I can, and have broad tastes, so that isn't an issue for me. Having a bit of a peek into you syllabus is also an appealing thought! I just don't like the idea of you getting stressed with a heavier workload.

Your idea sounds pretty amazing, I've never thought of trying that and it should be fun. I'm familiar with some of the Greek epics, and performed renditions of Gilgamesh (I played Eabani) but would need imput from you regarding specific times, etc, and if there are any more obscure works that may be unfamiliar, as I'm no scholar. As far as I'm aware, Gilgamesh would be the the one to start with?

I'm not all that familiar with modern epics, aside from the obvious, such as the Divine Comedy and Paradise Lost. Might need a bit more than a month for those!  

Also, is Parzival classed as an epic poem? Not sure, think it is but I've had a little look and can't see.

I'd certainly be down for that; either way suits me fine.

I'm all excited, now!

Wikipedia has a timeline of epics, though I'm not sure how extensive that is. Also, I take it you mean complete epics, not fragments or damaged pieces? I'd be a bit lost there.

Ah! I see! Perfectly happy to do a tour of your book.

I'm happy to do that, and have been looking for a list entirely devoted to poets, but cannot find one.

Also, it has been mentioned you might be concerned about how I feel regarding your ideas, that I may be offended, etc?

That is so not the case! I love poetry and the process of learning. Also, we are all here to have a good time and share in the joy these things bring us. I love that you are having ideas, finding ways to engage, and perhaps fulfil something that you have wanted to do for a long time, but not had the people to share that with; it's a big thing! It is an honour and pleasure to witness. Fire all the ideas that you like!   

I'm sorry if my taking a back seat has given the wrong impression, I just like your idea and so am giving you the opportunity to be creative with it, and also in a way that is managable to you. I've enjoyed hearing your thoughts, and look forward to putting them into action and reading even more poetry.

So, there are no worries from me!