Poetry: Close Reading
Tutor: Kane Sharpe
Subject: Literature
Maximum Attendees: 1
Course Outline:
1-1 specialist tutoring in close-reading of poetry from Chaucer, through Shakespeare and the Renaissance, the Restoration and Augustans, The Romantics, Victorians, and 20th-21st Century Poets.
The course takes this as a principle: the more you can get out of a poem the more you will enjoy it, and visa versa. My background in English Literature and Language (and Acting) has equipped me with a set of tools with which to understand, appreciate, and enjoy poetry to its utmost. It has given me an understanding of the periods, together with an effective 'tool kit' with which to 'get into' a poem - unlocking meaning through a thorough analysis of style and form, metrical form, and diction - the poet's choice of words.
Why I think students could benefit from it:
It will give an 'edge' to their critical analysis of poetry, engaging with the writing on a close and sensitive level. This will appeal to examiners, but also hopefully be a valued asset that will enable a greater and deeper appreciation of poetry for the rest of their life.
What the sessions would involve:
- Equipping the student with the necessary vocabulary, perception and tools to really get to the 'heart' of a poem.
- Helping the student understand that it's important to start with the basics, and then let the basics inform the more intricate nuances of the writing.
- Encouraging taste - nobody likes everything, and it's important to understand what it is you like and dislike about different poets' writings and style.
- Looking at poems, and reading some pieces aloud, - often this shows the language off at it's best.