LORD BYRON Poems

It's remarkable how much poetry comes alive when it's performed by the likes of Derek Jacobi or Prunella Scales, rather than a stodgy prof in a tweed blazer. This fine HighBridge series introduces listeners to major English poets using a successful formula in each of its titles. A narrator introduces each poem, providing biographical information, setting the work in its historical context and clarifying any obscure references. The selections--usually unabridged, though sometimes excerpts--are then read by one of several actors, providing a good cross section of each poet's oeuvre. One special highlight is a spirited delivery of "The Vision of Judgment." With only a few exceptions, these performers have a keen ear for the rhythm of the verse, and they illuminate it in new ways for readers who may have previously experienced this work only in print. D.B. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]