In his collection "Poetry," Henry Wadsworth Longfellow masterfully weaves together personal reflection and universal themes, utilizing a lyrical style that resonates with emotion and clarity. His works draw upon a rich tapestry of influences, including Romanticism and New England transcendentalism, exploring subjects of love, nature, loss, and the profound connection between the human experience and the natural world. Longfellow's adept use of meter, rhyme, and vivid imagery creates verses that invite readers into contemplative spaces, embodying the spirit of 19th-century American poetry while echoing classical traditions. As one of America's most celebrated poets, Longfellow was deeply influenced by his scholarly background and personal experiences, including the loss of his wife, which profoundly shaped his views on love and sorrow. His travels across Europe and his engagement with various literary traditions enriched his poetic voice, allowing him to bridge cultural divides and address themes that resonate with a wide audience. Longfellow's commitment to social issues, such as abolition and education, also infuses his work with a sense of moral urgency that remains relevant. "Poetry" is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of American literature and the depth of human emotion. Longfellow's accessible yet profound exploration of life's complexities makes this collection an essential addition to both literary studies and personal libraries. Readers will find themselves captivated by the beauty of his language and the timelessness of his themes, making this work a treasure for both scholars and casual readers alike.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.
- The Author Biography highlights personal milestones and literary influences that shape the entire body of writing.
- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.
- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.
- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) remains one of the most beloved figures in American poetry. His work is known for its lyricism, musicality, and romantic storytelling. Born in Portland, Maine, Longfellow cultivated an interest in languages and literature at a young age. Graduating from Bowdoin College, he went on to become a professor at both his alma mater and later at Harvard. Longfellow's poetry often explores themes of love and loss, the American landscape, and the human condition. Memorable works such as 'The Song of Hiawatha' and 'Evangeline' have solidified his place as an integral part of America's literary heritage. His 'Paul Revere's Ride' remains a staple of cultural lexicon, while 'The Courtship of Miles Standish' delves into the nation's colonial history. These narrative poems showcase Longfellow's mastery in blending folklore with a rich vernacular style. In 'The Psalm of Life' and 'The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls', Longfellow contemplates life's transience and the pursuit of purpose. His literary accomplishments were recognized even in his lifetime, making him one of the few American poets to gain international fame. Longfellow was also part of the Fireside Poets—a group known for their new American voice and easy-to-read poetry. His influence on American poetry is ever-present, embodying an era where poetry served to comfort, educate, and connect a diverse and growing nation.