This course examines Robert Frost’s first book, A Boy’s Will (1913). The title comes from Longfellow’s poem “My Lost Youth.” The volume consists of mostly short poems, many influenced in style and dictino by poetry of the late 19th century, but they suggest where his focus and further development of his poetical style will lead. It contains both some of his most beloved poems (including “Into My Own,” “Storm Fear,” “The Tuft of Flowers,” “October,” and “Reluctance”) and poems that deserve to be better known. In each class we will discuss six to seven poems; classes will be guided discussion. In preparation for class, participants should reach each poem carefully and repeatedly, and bring to class questions, topics, or parts of the poem they want to discuss.

Reading a Frost biography is strongly encouraged; Jay Parini’s is highly recommended. People who don’t know Frost’s work or who aren’t particularly well-versed in poetry in general are welcome, as are people who have been life-long lovers of poetry and Frost’s work.

This course will consist of discussions between the Study Leader and participants.