Sound and sense

Sound and Sense is Laurence Perrine's classic introduction to reading, understanding, and appreciating poetry. Widely used in classrooms for decades, the book teaches readers how poems create meaning through both sense (what the poem says) and sound (how the poem uses rhythm, imagery, structure, and musical devices). Perrine breaks down poetry into clear, approachable concepts, helping readers learn to: Recognize how poetic language differs from ordinary speech: Understanding imagery, figurative language, symbolism, and tone: Analyze rhythm, meter, rhyme, and other sound devices: Interpret poems thoughtfully without over-or under-reading: Appreciate how meaning and music work together to create emotional impact: The book blends explanation, examples, and guided analysis, making it a foundational text for students, teachers, and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of how poetry works.