By Heart: Reflections of a Rust Belt Bard

More about the book

Exploring the role of the bard, Philip Brady presents a collection of essays that blend humor and reflection on poetry's impact. He challenges academic norms, advocating for poetry's accessibility in diverse settings—from Ohio's rust belts to Irish pubs and Zairian classrooms. Rather than dissecting poems, he emphasizes their emotional resonance and the importance of memorization. Through engaging with non-traditional students, Brady transforms classroom challenges into opportunities for connection, celebrating the power of poetry to enrich lives and foster self-discovery.