Out of the quarrel with others we make rhetoric; out of the quarrel with ourselves we make poetry. 

                   ~W.B. Yeats

It is the job of poetry to clean up our word-clogged reality by creating silences around things. 

                   ~Stephen Mallarme

There will be three major areas in which you will work this semester. First, you will read. You will read poems. You will read criticism about poetry. You will read supplemental biographical sketches of poets. Second, you will write several critical responses to the readings, and you will write a final critical analysis essay that demonstrates your knowledge of modern and contemporary poetry and the critical stances that informed the works. Finally, you will take quizzes (4). The quizzes are designed to help you to see where you still need work, and to let you know the progress you're making in learning the elements of media. The class is demanding. You will need to show a firm grasp of the major poetic movements in the 20th Century. You will need to demonstrate your ability to apply that knowledge in by identifying specific elements that inform the poetry. The readings are dense and heavy--but the rewards of using a close reading for a better understanding of the works will be great.

Course Outcomes

• To develop an analytical and critical eye towards the artistic, social and political ramifications of the poetry and poetic movements of the 20th century
• To develop a firm grasp of the history and development of the poetry and poetic movements if the 20th century
• To understand and identify the major themes and forms of the various poetic movements

Course Requirements

Attendance is required and necessary since this is a participation-oriented class. More than four absences are grounds for failure. There will be times in the semester when you really need the days off, so don't miss class without good reason.

If you know you are going to miss a class, let me know. You are responsible for finding out what you missed and what assignments are due for the next class. If you miss a class, FIRST, ask your classmates, then feel free to ask me. Missed assignments will not be excused because of absences. Athletes: any special arrangements for athletes must be made with the professor at least two week prior to the event.

Do not come late to class. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, for any reason, you will be marked as absent. Likewise for leaving class early. Also, three times tardy equals an absence. Late attendance and absences will affect your participation grade. If you miss more than four (two, TR) classes, you will not receive an "A" for your participation grade.

You are expected to be prepared for every class. This means completing all reading and writing assignments on time. Failure to do so will greatly affect your participation grade.