Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
981 poetry books at CEFR A2 to C2 — learn English by reading the stories worth reading. Select any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration read the page aloud, and save the vocabulary you meet. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
What are the best poetry classics to read in English as a learner?
The best poetry classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with Nala and Damayanti and Other Poems, Myth and Romance: Being a Book of Verses and Myra's Well: A Tale of All-Hallow-E'en. Each one is labelled with a CEFR level, any word you do not know is one selection away from a translation, and the narration reads the page aloud while it highlights the words.
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Level C1PoetryMarsk Stig's Daughters, and Other Songs and BalladsTwo daughters of a disgraced marshal seek aid from kings across Scandinavia, weaving their sorrow and fate into intricate tapestries.
Level C1HistoricalMarmion: A Tale Of Flodden FieldIn the shadow of the Battle of Flodden, a poetic minstrel weaves a stirring tale of war, honor, and Scotland’s turbulent autumn, capturing the clash of swords and the spirit of a n…
Level C1PoetryMarlborough, and Other PoemsA collection of poignant poems and personal letters from a young officer in World War I, capturing the raw realities of war and reflections on life before his untimely death in bat…
Level A2PoetryMarigold GardenStep into a whimsical world where children wander meadows, dance with joyful families, and explore secret doors to mysterious lands—each charming poem invites you to rediscover the…
Level C1PoetryMarguerite; or, The Isle of Demons and Other PoemsA haunting poetic journey into the tragic legend of Marguerite, set against the eerie Isle of Demons and the harsh realities of early Canadian colonization.
Level B2PoetryMany Voices: PoemsStep into a moonlit garden where the boundary between life and death blurs, and a restless spirit seeks warmth and belonging in a world that no longer answers.
PoetryMany GodsExplore a rich tapestry of poetic voices that journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and spiritual reflections, from Japan to the Middle East, capturing moments of love, fai…
PoetryMammy's babyDelight in charming verses capturing childhood adventures, from mischievous kittens to snowy play, each poem filled with warmth and whimsy that brings family moments to life.
Level C1RomanceMalayan Literature: Comprising Romantic Tales, Epic Poetry and Royal ChroniclesEnter a world of enchanted palaces, mystical sentinels, and passionate tales where love and supernatural forces intertwine in captivating Malayan romances filled with vivid imagery…
Level B2PoetryMain Street, and Other PoemsStep into the quiet charm and heartfelt moments of everyday life, where snowy Main Street, cozy homes, and simple joys like a child’s snowman reveal the warmth beneath the ordinary…
Level C1PoetryMaha-bharata: The Epic of Ancient India Condensed into English VerseIn an ancient kingdom on the Ganges, rival princes—god-born sons of two royal brothers—vie for honor and power through a grand tournament of skill and valor.
Level C1PoetryMabel Martin, a Harvest Idyl; and other poems: Part 4 From Volume I of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierIn a tranquil New England valley, the memory of Susanna Martin, accused of witchcraft, lingers amid harvest celebrations and simple rural life.
Level C2PoetryLyrics selected from the works of A. Mary F. RobinsonDive into a rich collection of evocative poems exploring themes from nature and love to art and loss, each lyric inviting you to wander through pastoral scenes, timeless reflection…
Level C1PoetryLyrics of EarthImmerse yourself in a collection that captures the natural world's subtle beauty and profound moments, inviting reflection through vivid, lyrical poetry rooted in the earth’s timel…
Level C1PoetryLyrics from the Song-Books of the Elizabethan AgeDiscover a rich anthology of Elizabethan lyrics where music and poetry intertwine, revealing rare songs from the era’s most celebrated composers and hidden gems unearthed from hist…
Level A2PoetryLyrics & Legends of Christmas-TideStep into a festive world where timeless carols and enchanting tales weave together, bringing the spirit of Christmas to life through captivating verse and legendary characters.
PoetryLyrical talesDive into a collection where poetic grace meets storytelling, weaving emotions and imagery into lyrical journeys that captivate the heart and imagination.
Level C1PoetryLyrical Ballads, with Other Poems, 1800, Volume 1Explore vivid emotions and rustic life through poems that challenge traditional verse, blending heartfelt nature and human passions with innovative style to reveal the profound in…
Level C1PoetryLyrical Ballads, With a Few Other Poems (1798)A weathered mariner halts a wedding guest to recount a haunting voyage from tropical seas to icy polar realms, where storms and strange occurrences challenge the boundaries of natu…
Level C1PoetryLyrical Ballads with Other Poems, 1800, Volume 2Explore haunting pastoral poems where nature and human passion intertwine, from thrilling hunts to quiet reflections by mountain springs, capturing moments of joy, love, and loss i…
Level C1PoetryLyra Heroica: A Book of Verse for BoysDive into stirring verses that celebrate heroism, adventure, and patriotism, as youthful spirits are called to witness the valor and nobility of historic battles like Agincourt, in…
Level C1PoetryLyra FrivolaWry and witty verses reveal the poet’s humble desires and keen observations, from the trials of writers abroad to the woes of seasonal ailments and holiday hardships, all delivered…
Level C2PoetryLyra Celtica: An Anthology of Representative Celtic PoetryExplore a rich collection of Celtic poetry spanning ancient to modern times, offering a glimpse into the vibrant traditions, myths, and history of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittan…
Level B2PoetryLundy's Lane, and Other PoemsExperience the fierce Battle of Lundy's Lane through the eyes of Rufus Gale, a veteran whose memories capture the valor, loss, and lasting spirit of those who fought in the War of…
Level B2PoetryLumber LyricsCelebrate the warmth and joy of Christmas through heartfelt verses that invite you to set aside daily burdens and embrace the youthful spirit within, all woven with a loving nod to…
Level C1RomanceLucileIn a lively London May, aristocratic Lord Alfred faces unexpected challenges when a mysterious letter from the enigmatic Comtesse de Nevers disrupts his planned marriage, stirring…
Level C2PoetryLucastaPassion and valor intertwine in a collection of poems devoted to Lucasta, capturing love's complexities amid war and imprisonment.
Level C1PoetryLow Tide on Grand Pré: A Book of LyricsImmerse yourself in a lyrical journey through quiet moments and wandering souls, where each poem echoes the tranquil yet restless spirit of Grand Pré at low tide.
Level C1PoetryLove-Songs of ChildhoodDelight in charming poems that capture the magic of childhood—from dreamy lullabies and playful games to nature’s gentle songs and the joyful mischief of youth—each verse a tender…
Level C1PoetryLove, Worship and Death: Some Renderings from the Greek AnthologyExplore the tender and intimate world of ancient Greece through lyrical poems that reveal timeless themes of love, friendship, nature, and devotion, capturing the personal spirit a…
Level C1PoetryLove's crucifixDive into a tender exploration of unspoken love and enduring devotion, where dreams blur with reality and a silent muse holds the secret to a poet’s longing.
Level C2PoetryLove or Fame; and Other PoemsA young girl stands on the brink of womanhood, caught between the innocent joys of girlhood and the restless longing for a deeper life.
Level C2PoetryLove in the Suds: a Town Eclogue.: Being the Lamentation of Roscius for the Loss of His Nyky.In a biting poetic lament, a playwright named Roscius mourns the loss of his beloved Nyky amidst the intrigues and rivalries of London's theatrical world, exposing the power strugg…
Level A2PoetryLove Sonnets of an Office BoyDive into the heartfelt and whimsical world of an office boy's love, captured in a series of sonnets that reveal the charm, longing, and everyday poetry found amidst the humdrum of…
Level C2PoetryLove SongsDive into a world where beauty and longing intertwine through delicate, evocative verses that explore love’s joys and sorrows—from whispered kisses to silent yearnings beneath star…
Level C1RomanceLove Letters of a Violinist, and Other PoemsDiscover the mysterious love letters of a violinist, whose poetic confessions blend classical beauty with heartfelt passion, drawing readers into an ethereal world of music, dreams…
Level C1PoetryLouise Chandler Moulton, Poet and FriendExplore the life of a gifted poet whose lyrical spirit shapes not only her art but her wide circle of compassionate friendships.
Level A2PoetryLost NellieYoung Nellie’s innocent prayers and wandering spirit lead her into a touching journey of faith and hope, while other heartfelt tales explore kindness, perseverance, and the comfort…
Level C2PoetryLook! We Have Come Through!Experience the raw journey of a man grappling with love, loss, and self-discovery during the tumultuous passage into maturity, where passion and conflict intertwine beneath the moo…
PoetryLondon TownImmerse yourself in poetic reflections that capture the vibrant spirit and intricate life of London Town, weaving imagery and feeling into a vivid urban tapestry.
Level C2PoetryLondon SonnetsExplore the vibrant streets and hidden corners of London through evocative sonnets that capture everyday life, love, and war, painting a poetic portrait of a city alive with storie…
Level C1PoetryLondon LyricsExplore gentle, reflective verses capturing London life with subtle humor and tender melancholy, as a thoughtful poet observes everyday moments with grace and understated wit.
Level C1HistoricalLives of the Poets, Volume 1Explore the lives and works of England’s greatest poets through candid biographies that reveal their characters, controversies, and the moral lessons behind their art, all delivere…
Level C1HistoricalLives of the English Poets: Gay, Thomson, Young, Gray, &c.Explore the lives and works of English poets from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, revealing their literary contributions, personal struggles, and the cultural backdrop of t…
Level A2PoetryLittle peopleExplore a vivid alphabet where each letter introduces a different culture or character from around the world, brought to life through charming verses and colorful illustrations.
Level B2PoetryLittle WillieA whimsical glimpse into the mischievous world of Little Willie, where bedtime rituals and childhood antics stir both humor and curiosity in this charming collection of poetry.
Level B2PoetryLittle Wideawake: A story book for little childrenJoin Rosie, a spirited little girl, and her lively siblings on a snowy countryside adventure filled with playful mischief, unexpected thrills, and heartwarming moments that capture…
Level B1PoetryLittle SongsDelight in charming rhymes and gentle melodies that invite children into a world of gardens, moons, lullabies, and playful creatures, blending whimsical verses with tender lessons…