Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
2,602 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 Ægle and the elf, a fantasy, Zophiel and Zephyrs. 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.
- 2,602
- books
Level C1PoetryThe Woman Who DaredA fierce critique of societal constraints traps women in roles of dependence and submission, exposing the harsh realities behind ideals of marriage and female virtue.
Level C2PoetryThe Witch of AtlasA mysterious witch dwells in a cavern on Atlas' mountain, embodying both gentle power and enchanting beauty that tames even the wildest beasts and stirs the spirits of gods and mor…
Level B2PoetryThe Wit and Humor of America, Volume V. (of X.)In a bustling Philadelphia drawing school, young Marianne Atmore embarks on a creative journey to design exquisite china patterns destined to dazzle society, blending art, ambition…
Level B2PoetryThe Wit and Humor of America, Volume IX (of X)Dive into a whimsical collection of American wit and humor, where mischievous goblins with green-glass eyes and quirky tales bring laughter and mystery to life.
Level C1PoetryThe Wit and Humor of America, Volume IV. (of X.)Two men’s contrasting pursuits of wealth and love reveal the folly in chasing riches or neglecting responsibility, while a holy friar faces a cunning devil’s temptation disguised a…
Level C1PoetryThe Wit and Humor of America, Volume II. (of X.)Dive into a rich tapestry of American wit and wisdom, where fables and reflections reveal the quirks of society, human nature, and the timeless dance between pride, advice, and aff…
Level B2PoetryThe Wit and Humor of America, Volume I. (of X.)Discover a rich tapestry of American humor, from Mark Twain's witty tales to gentle raillery and tender verse, celebrating laughter’s power to unite and uplift in a uniquely nation…
Level C1PoetryThe Wind Among the ReedsJourney into the mystical world of the Sidhe, ancient Irish faeries who ride the winds and blur the line between madness and wisdom, as folklore and enchantment weave through tales…
Level C1PoetryThe Wild Swans at CooleAmidst the echoes of loss and the rhythms of nature, a shepherd’s song mourns a fallen youth whose gentle presence once graced the hills.
Level C2PoetryThe Wild Knight and Other PoemsDive into a vivid collection where dreams, faith, and the human spirit collide in poems that explore creation, defiance, and the eternal dance between light and shadow.
Level C2PoetryThe White WampumSongs woven like sacred wampum belts carry messages of peace, tradition, and fellowship, reflecting the spirit of a poet honoring heritage and the natural world through stirring ve…
Level C2PoetryThe White Canoe, and Other VerseImmerse yourself in evocative verses where nature’s whispers, spiritual quests, and intimate reflections unfold—each poem a delicate journey through love, faith, and the quiet myst…
Level C2PoetryThe White BeesIn a mystical tale where golden bees vanish with a lost love, the white bees emerge in winter’s chill, weaving a dreamlike harvest of beauty and forgetfulness.
Level C1PoetryThe Voice of Science in Nineteenth-Century Literature: Representative Prose and VerseExplore how nineteenth-century literature reflects the revolutionary impact of scientific thought on ideas about humanity, evolution, and the universe through a curated collection…
Level C1HistoricalThe Visions of England: Lyrics on leading men and events in English HistoryExplore vivid lyrical portraits of England’s most pivotal figures and moments, blending poetic artistry with historical truth to illuminate the spirit of a nation’s past through ev…
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.