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The Manly Book of Poems for Men: A Practical Guide to Life, Love and Flat-Pack Furniture Assembly from the World's Greatest Poets
"The world's first 'macho' poetry self-improvement book...A light-hearted and modern take on a selection of classic poetry" - Belfast Telegraph
"Humorous and educational" - John Toal, Radio Ulster
The Manly Book of Poems for Men shares the wisdom of some of the world's greatest poets in order to help men lead healthier, happier lives (and look big and clever in front of their mates).
There is a misconception among men that poetry is stuffy, irrelevant and difficult to understand. However, the truth is that poetry has lots of practical advice on how to survive the economic crisis, conquer melancholy and seduce the love of your life. (Along with some interesting observations on how much quince an owl and a pussycat can wrap in a five pound note).
The Manly Book of Poems for Men allows men to learn from the wisdom of poetry from behind a socially acceptable smokescreen of manly banter. It strips down some of the most beautiful and inspirational poems to their nuts and bolts, and then reassembles them for the manly-mind. This book is not an emotional 'first-aid kit'; rather it is a tool kit for men to use when aspects of their lives go a bit wonky. It is less Chicken Soup for the Soul, more Kebab and Chips…for the Soul.
In The Manly Book of Poems for Men you will learn important life lessons from the world's greatest poets, including:
John Keats on how to cope with depression, negotiate a hangover and successfully outsmart the Devil's Oompa Loompas
Philip Larkin on the fine line between observing life's rich tapestry and being a stalker
E.E. Cummings and W.H. Auden on the dangers of casual racism and even more casual sex
William Shakespeare on celebrating imperfection and the secret behind a really good Dutch oven
Thomas Hardy on how to overcome a swift kick in the ventricles
William Wordsworth on the sweet existential joy of receiving a free sample of cheese on a cocktail stick while out doing the shopping
…And much more!
About the author
David Craig is in his thirty-third year at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he teaches creative writing, literature, and composition. This is his twenty-ninth book.
