Seven Ages

An Anthology of Poetry with Music

By: William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, Ted Hughes

Narrated by: Ralph Fiennes, Dame Judi Dench

This highly entertaining anthology of verse is the comic, tragic, tender, and telling story of life's seven ages, from childhood to old age. Within the framework of Shakespeare's speech, "The Seven Ages of Man," performed by Sir Ian McKellen, are 150 great poems from all ages, from Chaucer to Emily Dickinson to Walt Whitman and many others. The poem are presented by the finest cast ever assembled on one recording and includes Ralph Fiennes, Dame Judi Dench, John Cleese, Michael Caine, and more.

Download the accompanying reference guide.©1998 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd. (P)1998 NAXOS AudioBooks Ltd.

Wonderful Readings

I really loved this disc, which was originally recorded as a tribute to the life of Princess Di. The readings are incredible, and my favorite was John Cleese's reading of Owl & The Pussycat. The poetry selections are perfect to follow the line of Shakespeare's ages of man and the readers were wonderfully chosen. High recommend.

Nice but hard to handle

It is really hard to go back to a specific poem with no index. It lessens the enjoyability since you have to guess if you want to go back to the beginning of a poem.

One of my favorite audio poetry collections

Excellent narrations of many famous poems and many which aren’t typically anthologized. Highly recommend!!! No matter your level of poetic prowess.

Surprising

I was really not expecting so many favouites so well read.

Some not read or heard in many years.

Even if you are not so interested in the Seven Ages aspect, this is a very good selection.

Thanks reviewer 'ESK' , for the list.

Life is poetry and poetry gives life

Would you consider the audio edition of Seven Ages to be better than the print version?

I consider this a compliment to the print version and to be enjoyed with the written work.

Any additional comments?

I listened to the poems as a warm up for my own writing. I also listened to the poems while studying for a comprehensive literature exam. These works were helpful in successfully completing the test.