This anthology illuminates the history practice & wonder of our most elusive art poetry. Intended for all those who love poetry including teachers readers writers & students the book should be valued by those who feel that an understanding of form-sonnet ballad villanelle & sestina would enhance their appreciation of poetry but are daunted by the terms the names & the histories of various poetic forms. The anthology draws the reader in by example & explanation to the excitement & entertainment of these forms. It explains their origins traces their development & shows examples from the past & present. In a feature called the form at a glance" the reader can try his or her own hand writing a particular form. Included are essays by each of the editors describing their own personal journeys toward a form for their poetic voice. Above all this anthology shows that poetic form is a continuing adventure."