This course is not a historical survey (though it moves, roughly, chronologically); neither is it a study of forms (though we will discuss certain formal issues). It is a course in the art of reading. We will read both individual poems and a whole book of poems. We will consider the work of accomplished masters (Donne, Milton, Blake, Dickinson) and more contemporary figures (Lawrence, O'Hara, Berryman). Requirements: several short papers and occasional writing exercises. Students will also be expected to submit, at the start of each class, one written question in response to the work we plan to discuss. Prerequisite: a 100-level English course, except 150. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference given to first year students (and then sophomores) who have placed out of 100-level courses with a 5 on the AP literature exam.