Lectures on English poets

"Lectures on English Poets" by James Russell Lowell is a compilation of intellectual talks focusing on poetry. Written in the later part of the 1800's, the compilation examines important people in English poetry and the qualities that highlight their impact, considering the significance of the literary heritage of England. The lectures likely examine diverse poets, with original interpretations connecting historical background, personal stories, and analytical observation, creating a beneficial work for readers with an interest in literary analysis. Lowell sets the stage for his study of English poetry, with the beginning of the work outlining his education and the setting of his speeches at the Lowell Institute. He accepts the difficulty of interpreting poetry, understanding that it goes beyond understanding needing a profound emotional response. Lowell introduces topics such as the creativity and emotional gravity of poetry, the talent of poetry versus mere writing ability, and the built-in beauty and influence of poetic words. As his initial lecture starts, he highlights that poetry catches sentiments and understandings that grow the human experience, pushing the audience to engage with the deeper implications behind the works of the poets to be examined.