Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
2,491 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 Winona, a Dakota Legend; and Other Poems, Wings of youth and Wings of silver. 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.
- 2,491
- books
Level C1PoetryThe Vision of Sir Launfal: And Other Poems by James Russell Lowell; With a Biographical Sketch and Notes, a Portrait and Other IllustrationsExplore a rich tapestry of poetry rooted in vivid memories of New England's landscapes, history, and family heritage.
Level C2PoetryThe Vision and Creed of Piers Ploughman, Volume 2A weary ploughman wrestles with the weight of sin and the struggle to keep his soul pure, guided by personified virtues like Conscience and Patience.
Level C2PoetryThe Vision and Creed of Piers Ploughman, Volume 1In a time of political upheaval and spiritual questioning, a visionary poem reveals the struggles against corruption and the quest for truth in 14th-century England.
Level C1PoetryThe Violet BookExplore a delicate anthology where the violet takes center stage, weaving through centuries of poetry from obscure verses to celebrated poets, revealing the flower’s quiet yet endu…
PoetryThe Village and The NewspaperExplore the contrast between rural life and the influence of the newspaper, as poetic reflections reveal the impact of modern news on a quiet village's traditions and daily rhythms…
Level C1PoetryThe Village Wife's LamentA village wife’s heartfelt lament confronts the brutal reality and moral madness of aggressive war, challenging humanity to reject violence and embrace a future shaped by conscienc…
Level C2PoetryThe Vigil of Venus and Other Poems by "Q"Celebrate the awakening of love and spring through ancient verse, where nature’s renewal ignites passion and the timeless call to embrace new affection unfolds beneath blooming bou…
Level C1HistoricalThe Vigil of Brunhild: A Narrative PoemIn a grim castle prison, Queen Brunhild faces betrayal and imminent death, haunted by visions of her turbulent past and the clash between her ideals and ruthless reality.
Level C2PoetryThe Victories of Love, and Other PoemsExplore the tender triumphs and trials of love woven through heartfelt poems that celebrate purity, devotion, and the quiet power of affection in everyday life.
Level C1PoetryThe Vicar of Morwenstow: Being a Life of Robert Stephen Hawker, M.A.Step into the vivid life of Robert Stephen Hawker, a passionate and eccentric poet whose childhood pranks and rebellious spirit clash with strict schooling, revealing a man torn be…
Level C2PoetryThe Verse of Alfred LichtensteinDive into a collection of lyrical and playful poems that explore love, death, and longing through vivid, sometimes grotesque imagery—where twilight blurs reality and reflections re…
Level C2PoetryThe Verner Raven, The Count of Vendel's Daughter, and Other BalladsA sorrowful maiden enlists a mysterious raven to reunite with her lost love, unveiling a tale of enchantment, betrayal, and transformation.
Level C1PoetryThe Vaudois Teacher, and other poems: Part 1 From Volume I of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierExplore a rich tapestry of narrative and legendary poems that weave human struggle, freedom, and heartfelt compassion through vivid storytelling and personal reflections on life an…
Level C1PoetryThe Vagabond and Other Poems from PunchOn a bitter November night in Danbury, a vibrant vagabond braves the storm with a colorful patchwork cloak and a mysterious past, seeking a lost violin that holds the key to his so…
Level C2PoetryThe Unknown ErosExplore the depths of love and passion through innovative catalectic verse, where tradition meets freedom in a poetic journey across time, emotion, and the unknown forces that bind…
Level B2PoetryThe Universal Reciter: 81 Choice Pieces of Rare Poetical GemsDive into a vibrant collection of 81 poetic gems blending eloquence, humor, and tender pathos, alongside lively dialogues that capture the spirited clashes and heartfelt moments of…
Level C1PoetryThe Union: Or, Select Scots and English PoemsExplore a curated blend of Scottish and English poetry that reveals the distinct tastes and talents of two cultures, featuring rare and original works alongside celebrated verses t…
Level C2PoetryThe Two TwilightsImmerse yourself in a collection of vivid poems that evoke serene twilight moments, delicate nature scenes, and the wistful musings of a reflective soul, where moonlit nights and b…
Level B2PoetryThe Twentieth Century EpicExplore a heartfelt poetic critique of early 20th-century society, examining the rise of legal socialism, public education, and political corruption, while advocating a return to l…
Level C1PoetryThe Twelve Labours of Hercules, Son of Jupiter & AlcmenaDriven by Juno’s wrath, a young Hercules undertakes twelve monumental labors—from slaying the fearsome Nemean Lion to capturing the golden apples guarded by dragons—each test revea…
Level C2RomanceThe Trumpeter of Säkkingen: A Song from the Upper Rhine.A wandering German minstrel finds inspiration and adventure across Italy, weaving a heartfelt song of love and home that echoes through the Black Forest and beyond.
Level C2PoetryThe True-Born Englishman: A SatireA sharp satire challenges the pride of so-called "true-born" Englishmen, exposing the rich blend of ancestries that shape the nation and urging acceptance of foreign influences as…
Level C2PoetryThe True Grecian Bend: A Story in VerseDive into a vivid poetic journey where wit and rhythm unveil the peculiar charm behind the enigmatic "True Grecian Bend," blending sharp observation with lyrical storytelling that…
Level C2PoetryThe Triumph of Music, and Other LyricsExplore a rich tapestry of lyrical poems that journey through seasons, emotions, and mythic visions, celebrating the enduring power of music and nature’s beauty.
Level C1PoetryThe Tribute: A Panegyrical PoemIn a heartfelt panegyric, a humble poet praises the virtues of a revered patriot and nobleman whose deeds illuminate his county and inspire all who know him.
Level C1FantasyThe Trial of an Ox, for Killing a Man;: With the Examination of the Witnesses, Before Judge Lion, at Quadruped Court, near Beast Park.In a whimsical court where animals speak and judge, an ox faces trial for killing a man, revealing a deeper tale of cruelty and injustice.
Level C1PoetryThe Trial and Execution of the Sparrow for Killing Cock RobinA whimsical trial unfolds as Sparrow faces judgment for the death of Cock Robin, blending poetic justice with charming verse and old-fashioned language.
Level C1AdventureThe Trail of the Goldseekers: A Record of Travel in Prose and VerseAs word of a million dollars in gold spreads, a diverse throng of adventurers embarks on perilous journeys through icy rivers and mountain passes to reach the mysterious Yukon, cha…
PoetryThe Titanic Disaster PoemExperience the haunting night of April 14, 1912, as the Titanic embarks on its fateful maiden voyage across the Atlantic, captured in a poignant poetic tribute to disaster and huma…
Level A2PoetryThe Tiny Story Book.Delight in charming tales of childhood adventures, kindness, and imagination—from playful tea parties and daring sea voyages to gentle lessons in love and generosity.
Level A2PoetryThe Tiny Picture BookDelight in charming poems that explore nature, animals, and childhood lessons with gentle wisdom and simple rhymes, inviting young readers to discover the beauty and morals hidden…
Level C2PoetryThe Three Taverns: A Book of PoemsExplore haunting portraits of despair and resilience in a shadowed valley where dreams falter and souls wander, revealing the silent struggles and hidden depths of human existence…
Level B2PoetryThe Three BearsWhen adventurous Goldenhair stumbles upon the empty home of three bears, she samples their porridge, chairs, and beds—only to face a surprising encounter upon their return.
Level C1PoetryThe Tent on the Beach, and other poems: Part 4 from Volume IV of The Works of John Greenleaf WhittierThree friends retreat to a windswept New Hampshire beach, blending scholarly reflection with vivid seaside legends and personal dreams, as they find escape and inspiration amid nat…
Level C2PoetryThe Temple of Nature; or, the Origin of Society: A Poem, with Philosophical NotesExplore the origins of life, love, and society through vivid, imaginative scenes blending mythology, nature, and philosophy.
Level C2PoetryThe Temple of GlassHaunted by sorrow, a weary soul drifts into a mysterious glass temple filled with vivid paintings of legendary lovers and tragic tales, inviting a journey through timeless stories…
Level C1PoetryThe Task, and Other PoemsExplore serene rural landscapes and intimate friendships through vivid blank verse, as a poet reflects on nature, companionship, and gentle humor inspired by everyday moments and c…
Level C2PoetryThe Talisman, from the Russian of Alexander Pushkin; With Other PiecesIn a world of mystic forces and haunting beauty, a sorceress gifts a powerful talisman to a young man, promising protection against deceit and danger.
Level C2PoetryThe Tales and Novels, v9: Belphegor and OthersIn a cunning blend of hellish intrigue and earthly desire, a demon named Belphegor ventures to Florence to unravel the secrets—and scandals—of human marriage, wielding charm, decep…
Level C2PoetryThe Tale of the ArgonautsHeroes unite aboard the Argo, embarking on a perilous quest for the Golden Fleece that pits them against treacherous seas, divine plots, and legendary foes.
Level C1PoetryThe Tale of Brynild, and King Valdemar and His Sister: Two BalladsIn a land where pride and peril intertwine, a fearless knight dares to conquer the treacherous Glass Hill to win the hand of proud Brynild, while royal intrigues unfold as King Val…
Level C2PoetryThe Tale of BalenIn the vibrant bloom of spring, a noble northern knight rides into Camelot, his spirit bright yet shadowed by looming doom.
Level C1PoetryThe Sylphs of the Season with Other PoemsJourney through a visionary realm where the seasons are ruled by ethereal sylphs, blending nature's beauty with poetic dreams and celestial encounters.
Level C1PoetryThe Suppressed Poems of Alfred Lord TennysonExplore a rare collection of poems penned during the peak of a celebrated poet's career but never republished, revealing early experiments, lyrical fragments, and suppressed verses…
Level C2PoetryThe Sunlit HoursImmerse yourself in a luminous garden where love blooms like radiant flowers, capturing moments of joy, faith, and soul-deep connection beneath sunlit skies.
Level A2PoetryThe Sugar-Plumb: or, Golden FairingAn enchanting alphabet poem invites children to explore letters through charming associations, while a fable in verse reveals the fleeting nature of joy as a boy chases a dazzling…
Level C1PoetryThe Sufistic Quatrains of Omar KhayyamExplore the profound quatrains of a philosopher-poet who blends Sufistic mysticism with sharp wit, moral reflection, and a quest for the eternal, challenging dogma while seeking di…
Level C1PoetryThe Sufism of the Rubáiyát, or, the Secret of the Great ParadoxExplore profound spiritual paradoxes through poetic reflections on the universe, the divine, and the hidden forces that transform matter into spirit, inviting seekers to uncover th…