Poetry Seminars with Judson Scruton: Robert Penn Warren

Poetry is a “way of getting your reality shaped a little better.” — R.P.W.

Join Wilton Library for a seminar series in which Judson Scruton takes us through a selection of remarkable poems by Robert Penn Warren from his seminal book Understanding Poetry.

Warren was a major force in American literature during the 20th century. He won major awards in poetry, drama, fiction and criticism and is the only writer to win Pulitzer Prizes in both poetry (twice) and fiction (All The Kings Men). His text Understanding Poetry (collaboratively written with colleague Cleanth Brooks) underwent four editions and became a major influence in establishing a new analytical theory for literature. “The New Criticism” consists of the close reading and analysis of a literary text as an object in itself.

Understanding Poetry provides a lens which will be used to discuss Warren’s poetry. It combines close observations of nature and reflections on human action.

Scruton, M.A. (The Johns Hopkins University, The Writing Seminars, specializing in poetry), taught creative writing and literature at prep schools and universities. Advance registration is required. Register and find more details online.