The Didactic Muse

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The exploration of contemporary American poetry reveals a revival of the didactic purpose, where poets aim to educate as well as entertain. Willard Spiegelman provides insightful analyses of notable poets like Nemerov, Ginsberg, and Rich, challenging traditional views on poetry's role. He begins with W. H. Auden's influence and culminates with a discussion of James Merrill's "The Changing Light at Sandover," positioning it as a significant epic of the twentieth century. Spiegelman argues that modern poets are returning to classical ideals of poetry as a means of instruction.