The Castle of Indolence: On Poetry, Poets, and Poetasters

I love poetry! Unfortunately, I read mostly old (think Edmund Spenser) poetry. I read this book because I'm interested in the author and because I'm interested in learning more about contemporary poetry. The mark of a good critic is that he leads you away from the bad stuff and towards the good stuff. Because of this book I will definitely look at some authors I'd never heard of. I've never read any of the poems reviewed here so I'm taking it on faith that Thomas M. Disch knows what he's talking about. The reason to place faith in Mr. Disch is his wonderful facility with words and his good humor. He writes well. He is quite entertaining. And he does not give in to praising those he does not feel merit praise. Read this book even if you don't care about poetry. Thomas M. Disch is that good of a writer.

The Castle of Indolence is criticism as it should be, not only for what it does not contain (recondite jargon, fawning flattery, faint praise in lieu of damnation, meaningless ad-copy fluff, etc.) but because it is downright entertaining. A page-turner, I read it in a couple of sittings, and lost track of how many times I laughed aloud. If there were more people like Thomas Disch around, there'd be a lot more poetry worth reading--or at least a lot less drek!

Disch writes criticism that makes you wince even when you agree with what he's saying. It takes a special writer to do this and still be able to keep the quality of his work above water, and Disch does this admirably. The introduction alone is almost worth the price of the entire book, as he proceeds to rip every aspect of the contemporary poetry scene that deserves it. The book alsoo contains a number of reviews of contemporary poets and books and even when he likes something it don't come easy...and who could blame him? In this day and age when everyone can become a poet at whim, it's about time to start taking a hard look at what's coming out of people's journals and seeing what's what.An incredible, tight bok of criticism that will engage you even if you don't know all of the poets he's talking about. A great example of how to citique invincibly.

Disch's comments can be harsh, comical, and hard-biting, but they are always honest. This book provides a collection of essays by a poetry critic who does not fear of insulting the poet. Straightforward and witty, these essays will change the way you read and appreciate poetry. His diction is delicate and precise, his style is unmatched by any contemporary critic. It is an awesome and powerful collection- one you will enjoy, and one you will remember. Its a great book, and an honest outlook on the state of poetry today!