The Best Poems of the English Language: Harold Bloom

Harold Bloom, a renowned literary critic and professor, has written extensively on the topic of poetry. His expertise in the field of English literature has led him to compile a list of what he considers to be the best poems of the English language. These poems range from classic works by William Shakespeare to more contemporary pieces by poets such as Sylvia Plath. In this article, we will explore some of the best poems of the English language as chosen by Harold Bloom.

Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats

John Keats is considered one of the greatest poets of the Romantic era, and his poem "Ode to a Nightingale" is a masterpiece of the English language. In this poem, Keats explores themes of nature, mortality, and the power of art. The nightingale serves as a symbol of transcendence and beauty, and Keats's lyrical language captures the essence of the bird's song.

"Thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird!

No hungry generations tramp thee down;

The voice I hear this passing night was heard

In ancient days by emperor and clown:

Perhaps the self-same song that found a path

Through the sad heart of Ruth, when, sick for home,

She stood in tears amid the alien corn;

The same that ofttimes hath

Charmed magic casements, opening on the foam

Of perilous seas, in faery lands forlorn."

Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? by William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is often regarded as the greatest playwright in the English language, but his sonnets are also highly acclaimed. Sonnet 18 is perhaps one of the most famous poems in the English language, with its opening line "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" becoming instantly recognizable. In this sonnet, Shakespeare explores the themes of love, beauty, and the passage of time.

"Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?

Thou art more lovely and more temperate:

Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,

And summer's lease hath all too short a date:

Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,

And often is his gold complexion dimmed;

And every fair from fair sometime declines,

By chance or nature's changing course untrimmed;"

Lady Lazarus by Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath is known for her confessional poetry that delves into themes of mental illness, identity, and female oppression. In "Lady Lazarus," Plath uses powerful imagery and language to depict her own struggles with depression and suicide attempts. The poem is a haunting exploration of the complexities of life and death.

"Dying

Is an art, like everything else.

I do it exceptionally well.

I do it so it feels like hell.

I do it so it feels real.

I guess you could say I’ve a call."

The best poems of the English language, as chosen by Harold Bloom, encompass a wide range of themes, styles, and time periods. From the romantic musings of John Keats to the timeless verses of William Shakespeare, these poems have stood the test of time and continue to inspire readers and writers alike. Whether exploring nature, love, or the depths of the human soul, the poems highlighted in this article demonstrate the power of language and the enduring impact of great poetry.