The Oxford Book of English Verse, 1250-1918 Hardcover – January 1, 1963

There's wonderful archaic quality to this collection which to my mind makes it a must-own. Like its far less interesting successor, the New Oxford Book of English Verse, there's almost nothing here in the way of notes, no biographies--you're on your own, which still makes The Harper Anthology of Poetry a clear winner in the poetry anthology category (also because it includes American poetry). But this volume is almost a hoot, in that the dust-jacket spine bears, not the name of the author, but only the magisterial letter Q. I wonder if the designer knew that "Q" is the designation given, in New Testament studies, to "Quelle," the conjectural book of Christ's sayings from which Matthew, Mark, and Luke are thought to have drawn their Jesus words. In any event, this book, at least the hardcover I received, has a good sewn binding, is printed on OK paper, and will last a while in my backpack as I continue to lug around poetry, perhaps the lightest heavy burden you can have.CORRECTION: Unlike the New Oxford Book edited by Gardner, Quiller-Couch does include American poetry, for example Poe, Longfellow, Emerson, and Dickinson.

The is the best anthology of poetry in English. My copy needed some book glue in the binding (the volume is some eighty years old), but repaired well. I carry it around with me in the car and read it in cafes' and while waiting in lines. Do be careful of some of the more modern editions with their political editing.I found LINECO Neutral pH adhesive on amazon, and it has proven to be the best book glue for repairing old books. Scotch tape and non-specific pastes and glues, no matter how useful in other projects, aren't designed for the durability and flexibility needed in book spines. Note: I have no connection with LINECO.

I purchased this volume of poetry as much for comparison's sake as for pleasure. I've piled up the latest Norton Anthology of Poetry, Christopher Ricks's edition of The Oxford Book of Verse from 1999, and The Oxford Book of American Verse as I study for the GRE subject exam in English Literature. The Norton should serve the practical needs of any student or reader, but I purchased this after skimming it in the local library, deciding to compare the selections by renowned poets found in most anthologies as well as view the work of poets who have now faded into relative obscurity today, or at least, they didn't find their way into my undergraduate syllabi! Even after exam preparation, this will be a pleasure to open, and it is certainly an easier travel companion than the unwieldy Norton. If, however, you're looking for twentieth century poetry in your survey, then try to locate the Ricks volume.

This is my favorite of all the editions of the Oxford Book of English Verse. I love the scope and the selections. From the Middle English verse of Chaucer to poets of the early 20th century. I'm sure not everyone will agree with me, but I'm thrilled to be able to own this volume. Even if you are not a fan of poetry per se, this book may change your mind.

Bought this book for my adult daughter who has many interests and many talents. She is extremely pleased with the book and it's condition.

Poetry has always been an integral part of my life. Having first read English verse in Hungarian translation before I learned English was a pleasure only surpassed by reading it in the original language. This collection ( an earlier one was lost when relocating) will be on my nightstand and enjoyed whenever my soul requires a special elixir.

Interesting and in good condition. A gift for our son

Good vendor.