Next Word, Better Word: The Craft of Writing Poetry

This accessible writer's guide provides a helpful framework for creating poetry and navigates contemporary concerns and practices. Stephen Dobyns, author of the classic book on the beauty of poetry, Best Words, Best Order, moves into new terrain in this remarkable book. Bringing years of experience to bear on issues such as subject matter, the mechanics of poetry, and the revision process, Dobyns explores the complex relationship between writers and their work. From Philip Larkin to Pablo Neruda to William Butler Yeats, every chapter reveals useful lessons in these renowned poets' work. Both enlightening and encouraging, Next Word, Better Word demystifies a subtle art form and shows writers how to overcome obstacles in the creative process.

Author: Stephen Dobyns
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 03/15/2011
Pages: 288
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 9.30h x 6.00w x 0.80d
ISBN: 9780230621824

Review Citation(s):
Choice 10/01/2011

About the Author

Stephen Dobyns is the author of over 30 novels and poetry collections, including "The" "Church of the Dead Girls," "Cold Dog Soup," and "Cemetery Nights." Among his many honors and awards are a Melville Cane Award, Pushcart Prizes, National Poetry Series prize, and three National Endowment for the Arts fellowships. His novels have been translated into 20 languages, and his poetry has appeared in the "Best American Poems" anthology. Dobyns teaches creative writing at Warren Wilson College and has taught at the University of Iowa, Sarah Lawrence College.