The Greatest Russian, American, British "Fiction, Poetry" Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Poetry

Poetry is a genre of literature that uses language to evoke emotion, paint vivid imagery, and convey complex ideas through the use of rhythm, meter, and sound. It is characterized by its use of figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, and its ability to capture the essence of a moment or experience in a concise and powerful way. Poetry can take many forms, including sonnets, haikus, free verse, and spoken word, and can cover a wide range of topics, from love and nature to politics and social issues. As a category for books, poetry offers readers a unique and intimate glimpse into the human experience, inviting them to explore the beauty and complexity of language and the world around them.

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  1. 1. The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe by Edgar Allan Poe

    This collection brings together all of the author's most famous works, including poems, short stories, and novellas. Known for his macabre and gothic storytelling, the author's works are filled with themes of death, love lost, and human frailty. Notable inclusions are the haunting poem "The Raven," the chilling stories "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Fall of the House of Usher," and his only complete novel, "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym."

    The 121st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Waste Land by T. S. Eliot

    "The Waste Land" is a long poem that presents a bleak and despairing view of the world following the devastation of World War I. The poem is divided into five parts and uses a wide range of literary and cultural references, as well as multiple narrators, to depict a world in ruins. It explores themes of disillusionment, despair, and the decline of civilization, and is often considered a seminal work of modernist literature.

    The 198th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Cane by Jean Toomer

    "Cane" is a collection of vignettes and poems that depict the life of African-Americans in both the rural South and urban North during the early 20th century. The narrative explores themes of racial identity, cultural heritage, and the African-American experience, blending elements of fiction, poetry, and drama. The work is divided into three parts, with the first and third focusing on life in the rural South and the second part on life in the urban North.

    The 791st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Prufrock and Other Observations by T. S. Eliot

    This collection of poems presents a critique of society through the lens of a disillusioned modern man. The titular character is a middle-aged man contemplating the emptiness and lack of fulfillment in his life. The poems delve into themes of despair, regret, and existential angst, reflecting the disillusionment of the post-World War I generation. The poems are characterized by their innovative use of dramatic monologue, stream of consciousness, and other modernist techniques.

    The 914th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

    This book is a collection of whimsical and often thought-provoking poems and illustrations that explore a wide range of topics from everyday childhood experiences to fantastical, imaginative scenarios. The poems, paired with distinctive line drawings, are known for their humor, creativity, and the author's unique perspective on life. They often contain a deeper message or moral, making the book a beloved classic for both children and adults.

    The 1351st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Spoon River Anthology by Edgar Lee Masters

    "Spoon River Anthology" is a collection of short free-form poems that tell the epitaphs of the residents of a fictional small town, Spoon River, which is modeled after the small towns of the author's youth. The poems reveal the honest, often harsh realities of life, as each deceased citizen tells their own tale of love, despair, success, failure, and the human condition. The book is a commentary on the hypocrisy, moral corruption, and societal constraints of early 20th century rural America.

    The 2215th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Weary Blues by Langston Hughes

    This book is a seminal collection of poems that delves into the African American experience during the early 20th century, capturing the struggles, joys, and cultural vibrancy of the Harlem Renaissance. Through its titular poem and others within the collection, the work explores themes of racial identity, social injustice, and the power of music and art as forms of resistance and celebration. The lyrical verses blend the rhythm of blues and jazz with vivid imagery, showcasing the author's innovative use of language and his profound connection to the Black community's heritage and spirit.

    The 1501st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Tender Buttons by Gertrude Stein

    "Tender Buttons" is an avant-garde collection of prose poetry, divided into three sections: "Objects," "Food," and "Rooms." The book is renowned for its experimental, stream-of-consciousness style, and its abstract, often nonsensical language. It challenges traditional narrative and linguistic structures, creating a unique exploration of everyday objects and experiences. The work is a significant contribution to modernist literature and a pioneering example of feminist writing.

    The 1761st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. In Parenthesis by David Jones

    In Parenthesis is a semi-autobiographical novel set during World War I, focusing on the experiences of a British infantryman from his enlistment to his injury in the Battle of the Somme. The narrative combines prose and poetry to depict the harsh realities of war, including the camaraderie between soldiers and the chaos and horror of battle. The novel is noted for its detailed and realistic portrayal of trench warfare and its exploration of the psychological impact of war on soldiers.

    The 1981st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Bedbug And Selected Poetry by Vladimir Mayakovsky

    "The Bedbug And Selected Poetry" is a collection of poems by Vladimir Mayakovsky, a prominent Russian poet of the early 20th century. The book features a mix of Mayakovsky's avant-garde and politically charged works, showcasing his unique style and themes of revolution, love, and the struggles of the working class. Through his powerful and dynamic verses, Mayakovsky offers readers a glimpse into the social and cultural landscape of his time, while leaving a lasting impact with his thought-provoking and emotive poetry.

    The 2276th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Asphodel by Hilda Doolittle

    "Asphodel" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the complexities of a love triangle involving the protagonist, her husband, and another woman. Set during the First World War, the story is a vivid portrayal of the protagonist's emotional struggles as she navigates her relationships and her own identity, while also dealing with the societal and political pressures of the time. The novel is known for its rich, poetic language and its exploration of themes such as love, betrayal, identity, and war.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Dream Songs by John Berryman

    The book is a collection of 385 poems that form a deep and complex portrait of the protagonist's troubled psyche, as he grapples with a myriad of themes including loss, despair, race, and the fragmented nature of the self. The narrative is characterized by its innovative structure, shifting perspectives, and a unique blend of high diction and colloquial language. The protagonist's journey is marked by moments of intense emotional turmoil and self-reflection, often conveyed through a dialogue between different aspects of his personality, as he seeks meaning and redemption in a chaotic world.

    The 2809th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. A Street In Bronzeville by Gwendolyn Brooks

    This book is a poignant collection of poetry that explores the lives and struggles of African Americans in the mid-20th century urban landscape. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poems delve into themes of racial identity, social injustice, and the search for personal meaning within the confines of a segregated society. The poet's keen observations and lyrical mastery bring to life the vibrant community of Bronzeville, a neighborhood in Chicago, capturing both its beauty and its hardships, and offering a powerful commentary on the broader African American experience during this era.

    The 2898th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight by Simon Armitage

    The book is a modern translation of a 14th century alliterative poem, which tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table. The story begins when a mysterious Green Knight arrives at Arthur's court, challenging the knights to a beheading game. Gawain accepts the challenge and beheads the Green Knight, who surprisingly survives and tells Gawain to seek him out a year later to return the blow. The book follows Gawain's journey, filled with trials and temptations, as he tries to fulfill his promise to the Green Knight, maintaining his honor and chivalry.

    The 3063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Poems: Selected and New, 1950-1974 by Adrienne Rich

    This book is a collection of poetry that spans over two decades of the author's work. The poems explore various themes such as love, loss, identity, and the struggles of womanhood. The author's unique voice and perspective shine through in each poem, offering readers a glimpse into her world and experiences. The collection also includes several new poems, showcasing the author's growth and evolution as a poet.

    The 3177th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine

    "Citizen: An American Lyric" is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of racial prejudice in contemporary America. The book, written in a blend of poetry, prose, and visual images, delves into the everyday experiences and microaggressions that people of color face. It also addresses larger events from the news that have impacted the Black community. The book is a powerful commentary on race, identity, and belonging, challenging readers to confront their own biases and perceptions.

    The 3246th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Renascence and Other Poems by Edna St. Vincent Millay

    "Renascence and Other Poems" is a collection of lyrical and thought-provoking poetry that explores themes of love, death, nature, and the human condition. The book features the author's early works, including the titular poem, "Renascence," a long-form piece that garnered significant attention and acclaim. The author's expressive language and powerful imagery create a captivating and emotionally resonant reading experience.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Hermione by Hilda Doolittle

    The book in question is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the inner life of a young woman named Hermione Gart, a stand-in for the author herself. Set in the early 20th century, the narrative explores Hermione's complex emotional world and her struggle to find her own identity amidst the constraints of society and her relationships. Through a stream-of-consciousness style, the novel examines themes of feminism, sexuality, and self-discovery, as Hermione navigates her way through love, intellectual pursuits, and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated world. The novel is recognized for its lyrical prose and its pioneering use of psychological introspection.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Twelve by Alexander Blok

    "The Twelve" is a controversial and symbolist Russian poem that weaves together the chaotic and transformative energy of the 1917 Russian Revolution with mystical and religious elements. Set against the backdrop of a blizzard in Petrograd, the narrative follows twelve Red Army soldiers as they march through the city's streets, grappling with their purpose and the violent upheaval of the old order. The poem is renowned for its vivid imagery, complex allegories, and the provocative inclusion of a Christ-like figure amidst the revolutionary fervor, challenging readers to interpret the convergence of spiritual and political themes.

    The 3685th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. A Poem Without A Hero by Anna Akhmatova

    The book is a profound reflection on the nature of memory, history, and the enduring impact of war. Through a series of interconnected poems, the work weaves together personal and collective experiences, focusing on the tumultuous events of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Stalinist era. The poet grapples with the themes of loss, betrayal, and the search for redemption, while also paying homage to the artists and thinkers who suffered under repressive regimes. Rich in allusions and steeped in a complex interplay of voices and time periods, the narrative serves as a poignant meditation on the role of the poet and the power of poetry to bear witness to the tragedies of the past.

    The 3727th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. A Cloud In Trousers by Vladimir Mayakovsky

    This early 20th-century poetic masterpiece blends revolutionary fervor with intense personal emotions, reflecting the tumultuous era of its creation. The work is a four-part epic poem that delves into the author's passionate and tumultuous love affair, juxtaposing his individual romantic experience with broader social and political upheaval. The poet's innovative use of language, rhythm, and imagery breaks from traditional forms, mirroring the chaotic spirit of the time and the poet's desire for both personal and societal transformation. Through vivid and often jarring metaphors, the poem conveys a sense of disillusionment with love and the contemporary social order, while also expressing a fervent hope for a new and better world.

    The 3768th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Zangezi by Velimir Khlebnikov

    "Zangezi" is a complex avant-garde poem that blends elements of drama and epic literature to explore the themes of language, revolution, and cosmic philosophy. The work is structured around the titular prophet-like figure who communicates with both humans and celestial beings, delivering cryptic and prophetic messages. Through a series of chants, monologues, and dialogues, the text delves into the nature of existence and the power of words, employing a unique linguistic style that reflects the author's fascination with the transformative potential of language and his vision of a future shaped by a universal human culture. The poem is known for its experimental use of sound, language, and its radical departure from traditional narrative forms, reflecting the tumultuous changes of the early 20th century and the search for new means of expression.

    The 3777th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Poem Of The Mountain by Marina Tsvetayeva

    "Poem of the Mountain" is a lyrical masterpiece that delves into the emotional landscape of the human experience, as it traverses the metaphorical heights and depths of a mountainous terrain. The work is a rich tapestry of imagery and introspection, reflecting the author's profound connection to nature and the tumultuous journey of the soul. Through a series of evocative verses, the poem explores themes of isolation, passion, and the relentless search for spiritual transcendence, capturing the essence of the human struggle against the immensity of the natural world and the inner forces that drive us.

    The 3788th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Antiworlds by Andrey Voznesensky

    "Antiworlds" is a collection of poetry that provides a glimpse into the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. The poems are characterized by their avant-garde style, exploring themes of love, politics, and the human condition. The book includes the author's reflections on his travels around the world, his experiences with other cultures, and his perspective on the political climate of his time. The poems are both personal and universal, offering a unique perspective on the world during a period of intense political and social change.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Emperor's Babe by Bernardine Evaristo

    This novel tells the story of a young Sudanese girl, Zuleika, who is married off at the age of 11 to a rich, older Roman businessman in Londinium, 211 AD. Despite the luxuries her marriage affords her, Zuleika feels trapped and yearns for real love and freedom. The narrative takes a turn when she meets and falls in love with the Roman Emperor, a relationship that brings her joy but also puts her in grave danger. The book is a vivid portrayal of ancient Rome, with its mix of cultures, and explores themes of love, freedom, and the struggles of a woman in a patriarchal society.

    The 4038th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download