The New Oxford Book of Irish Verse (Oxford Books of Verse)

This was a survey of Irish poetry from the earliest days (about 800) to the present. The poems were enjoyable for the most part -- I actually read the whole thing. There were some I didn't particularly like and I thought his choices among modern Irish poets was odd. However editors never please everyone. Overall I thought it was a good introduction and would recommend it.

This is a very scholarly textbook. It absolutely does what it sets out to do: provide an academic overview of the breadth of the history of Irish and English poetry from Ireland. That being said, where's the humor? Where's the humanity? Political and ecclesiastical history are well represented, and there's blood and tragedy a'plenty; but where are the people? I have to assume that I purchased something with extremely flawed expectations, but maybe that will help you decide whether to buy it.

but this will do. I am interested in this particular literary tradition, and this dog-eared copy is worn but well worth the price. Again, just wish there were more of the contemporary folks.

I have been reading a series of novels based on Irish history during the great potato famine and emigration to America and this collection enhances the material in the novels.

The book is a gret companion I cn open it at any time and find an appropriate poem to match my mood.