POPULAR POETRY/POPULAR VERSE

This collection might be called "Poetry Hits of English Lit" since all the important British poets are represented, chronologically arranged from Shakespeare to Owen. The compilers distinguish between poetry and verse--the former being a "more complex category"--but give one tape and at least forty selections to each form. Lesser and Beale, two of Britain's leading classical actors, do a wonderful job reading these poems, capturing the nuances of the language. The production is carefully packaged with notes and the recording time of each poem, making it easy to find a particular selection. Musical interludes by Brahms, Debussy and others add just the right touch. P.B.J. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB 97]