Poems For Gardeners

This anthology celebrates the beauty of gardening through poetry, featuring works from various eras, including Poems for Gardeners by Germaine Greer.

In Poems for Gardeners, Germaine Greer explores the intersection of nature and poetry, illustrating how gardens serve as both a literal and metaphorical space for reflection. She references Marianne Moore's assertion that poets create 'imaginary gardens with real toads in them,' suggesting that while gardens may be aspirational, the experiences and emotions they evoke are tangible and immediate. This anthology invites readers to consider the beauty and complexity of gardens through the lens of poetry.

The collection spans from classical antiquity to contemporary works, featuring beloved pieces like Marvell's 'The Garden' and Frost's 'After Apple-picking.' Each poem highlights the rich tapestry of gardening experiences, from the joy of cultivation to the bittersweet nature of loss. Surprises abound in the selection, including Tennyson's unconventional 'Amphion' and Fleur Adcock's intriguing 'Emblem,' which contemplates the mating habits of slugs.

Poems for Gardeners serves as a companion for all seasons, whether read alongside seed catalogues during winter's chill, during brief moments of respite in the spring, or while lounging in a hammock on a warm summer day. This anthology not only celebrates the act of gardening but also deepens our appreciation for the poetic expressions that arise from this timeless pursuit.