Selecting Complex Texts with Intention

Poetry frequently does not conform to the "expectation of logic" that is characteristic of (most) prose. Because of this, poetry can be an outstanding tool for preparing students for resistant prose. From middle school through high school, they will only read and discuss with their peers a handful of books. Because these few books form the foundation of their knowledge of how literature works within and interacts with society, teachers must select them like the precious resource they are.