Modern Spanish Lyrics   By: S. Griswold (Sylvanus Griswold) Morley (1878-1970)

Modern Spanish Lyrics by S. Griswold (Sylvanus Griswold) Morley is a comprehensive collection of poetry that highlights the richness and diversity of Spanish literature. As an anthology of Spanish lyrics, this book presents an immersive and captivating journey through different periods and styles of poetic expression.

The author, S. Griswold Morley, demonstrates exceptional curation skills by selecting poems from renowned Spanish poets such as Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, Federico García Lorca, and Antonio Machado, among many others. The range of authors and their thought-provoking poems create a multifaceted exploration of themes like love, nature, and the human condition.

One of the remarkable qualities of this collection is the inclusion of both original Spanish versions of the poems and their translated English counterparts. This bilingual approach enables readers with varying levels of fluency in Spanish to appreciate the lyrical beauty and profound messages these verses convey. Morley's translations retain the essence and musicality of the original Spanish texts, making them accessible and relatable to readers from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Moreover, the insightful introduction by Morley provides valuable context and background information on each individual poet making it an apt choice for both newcomers to Spanish poetry and seasoned enthusiasts. His extensive knowledge and meticulous research shine through in these introductions, allowing readers to gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of each poet and their contributions.

While this anthology predominantly features traditional Spanish poets, it also includes contemporary voices that add a refreshing touch to the collection. The juxtaposition of classic and modern poems creates a fascinating dialogue, demonstrating the evolution of poetic styles while maintaining the timeless essence of Spanish lyricism.

If there is one minor drawback to this anthology, it would be the absence of footnotes or annotations accompanying the poems. Although Morley's introduction offers valuable insights into each poet's background, some readers may crave additional explanations or interpretations of specific words or contexts within the poems themselves. However, this does not significantly hinder the overall reading experience, as the beauty of poetry lies in its subjective interpretation.

In conclusion, S. Griswold Morley's Modern Spanish Lyrics is an enriching and delightful anthology that allows readers to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Spanish poetry. With its carefully chosen selection of both classic and contemporary works, accompanied by bilingual translations, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the vast and profound realm of Spanish lyrical expression.

First Page:

The present volume aims to furnish American students of Spanish with a convenient selection of the Castilian lyrics best adapted to class reading. It was the intention of the editors to include no poem which did not possess distinct literary value. On the other hand, some of the most famous Spanish lyrics do not seem apt to awaken the interest of the average student: it is for this reason that scholars will miss the names of certain eminent poets of the siglo de oro . The nineteenth century, hardly inferior in merit and nearer to present day readers in thought and language, is much more fully represented... Continue reading book >>