The Beginner's Guide to English Poetry: From Wordsworth to Sexton

English poetry has a rich history that spans centuries and encompasses a wide range of styles and themes. It can be a great way to explore different forms of expression and gain a deeper understanding of the English language. This guide will take you on a journey through time, starting with the works of William Wordsworth and ending with Anne Sexton, and provide tips for exploring the beauty of English poetry as a beginner.

First, we will start with the works of William Wordsworth, considered as one of the leading poets of the Romantic Era. His most famous works include "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" and "Tintern Abbey" which are characterized by their focus on nature, emotion, and imagination. Wordsworth's work is known for its simple and direct language, and it is considered as one of the greatest examples of the romantic style of poetry.

Next, we will move on to the works of the Victorian era poets such as Alfred Lord Tennyson, Robert Browning, and Christina Rossetti. These poets wrote during the reign of Queen Victoria and their works reflect the social and cultural changes of the time. Their works are characterized by their focus on love, nature, and the human condition.

Then, we will explore the works of the modern poets, such as W.H Auden, Robert Frost, and Wallace Stevens. These poets wrote during the early 20th century, a time of great change in the English society and culture, their works reflect this change and are characterized by their focus on individualism, self-discovery, and the search for meaning in the modern world.

Finally, we will delve into the works of the contemporary poets, such as Anne Sexton, Sylvia Plath and Adrienne Rich. These poets wrote during the second half of the 20th century, a time of great change in the English society and culture, their works reflect this change and are characterized by their focus on feminism, personal experiences, and social issues.

As you journey through time and verse, don't forget to experiment with different styles and forms of poetry such as sonnets, haikus, and free verse. Also, reading poetry out loud can help you appreciate the rhythm and sound of the words.

By exploring the beauty of English poetry, you can gain a deeper understanding of the English language and appreciate the depth and beauty of the words. This guide will help you to understand the evolution of English poetry from the works of Wordsworth to Sexton.