These books are wonderful resources for the young swain (or swainette) looking for the words to impress and express with one's soul and passion. I believe that poetry communicates on a level beyond words and the proper (or improper in the best possible way) poem, at the right moment, can have a great influence on the heart and will of others, as the power of amomancy (the magic of words of love) does its purpose.
by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Even if you think you know nothing about poetry, you know the opening line of one of these amazing love sonnets, written by the poet to her husband, Robert Browning (who was no slouch in the pentameter himself): "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."
by Leslie Pockell
A sterling collection that represents not only authors of various eras and cultures, including the majestic Rabindranath Tagore, Sappho and Pablo Neruda. It's sort of a Whitman's Sampler of Love Poems; there's bound to be something in here that suits your mood and fancy.
by Sam Hamill
If you will, an even more eclectic collection of poems, pressing more towards the passionate and erotic. Read it cover to cover and see if your ability to speak of passion and desire with greater eloquence isn't enhanced.
edited by John C. Kirkland
Although there is poetry fully realized within this, the focus is on the broader eloquence of the love letter, as we read the actual words penned by great and effective communicators as they express their passions.
by Octavio Paz, edited by Eliot Weinberger
While not necessarily as well known as Pablo Neruda, Octavio Paz demonstrated all he ever needs to as a romantic poet with his line "the world is born when two people kiss." Many of the works in this bilingual volume are not strictly romantic, but even Aphrodite looks to the side from time to time.
Flashlight Worthy
Recommending books so good, they'll keep you up past your bedtime. more...
About William F. DeVault
An author of romantic poetry for more than three decades, Mr. DeVault was christened the "Romantic Poet of the Internet" in 1996 by Yahoo. The former host of AOL's "Romantic and Erotic Poetry Group" and "Passionate Craft" poetry workshop has more than 10 books to his name (most available via Amazon.com) as well as a handful of CDs of his performances of his work. He counts Los Angeles as his home base.
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