Eavan Boland Book order (chronological)

Code consists of a group of shorter poems and one of Eavan Boland's major sequences which extends the thematic concerns first traced in The Journey 15 years ago. Time passes: the poet's own situation as woman, mother and wife changes. The sense that earlier poems have made is not invalidated; it is qualified in a new time and place. The feminist perspectives of the poet, in the marriage sequence that stands at the beginning of the book and the ode with which the book concludes, take crucial new risks with language. Boland moves beyond the broken narratives between women towards new forms of exploration and affirmation.

Two beloved and esteemed poets have collaborated on this intimate and useful anthology illuminating the history, practice, and wonder of our most elusive art. Intended for all those who love poetry, including teachers, readers, writers, and students, The Making of a Poem will be especially valued by those who feel that an understanding of form--sonnet, ballad, villanelle, sestina, etc.--would enhance their appreciation of poetry, but are daunted by the terms, the names, and the histories of various poetic forms. This anthology draws the reader in, by example and explanation, to the excitement and entertainment of these forms. It explains their origins, traces their development, and shows examples from the past and present. In a feature called "The form at a glance" the reader can try his or her own hand writing a particular form. Included are essays by each of the editors describing their own personal journeys toward a form for their poetic voice. Above all, this anthology shows that poetic form is a continuing adventure. Contemporary poets can be seen here trying out the same forms that poets used hundreds of years ago, but in the new circumstances of a complicated modern world. In this way poetic form is illustrated not as a series of rules, but as a passionate conversation in which every reader of poetry can become involved.