Sunday Feature

Seven Types of William Empson

Sunday 1 October 2006 21:30-22:15 (Radio 3)

Poet and critic William Empson is best known for his pioneering studies of English literature such as seven types of ambiguity, as well as his lyrical and witty poetry that made a big impact on other 20th Century poets.

Empson was born 100 years ago and there is now a revival of interest in his work - with new editions of his best-known books in print. Writers and commentators such as Christopher Ricks, Clive James, John Haffenden and Adam Phillips discuss Empson's life and work. They assemble their own 'seven types' of William Empson, with topics ranging from poetry and the east, to beards and aphorisms.

Duration:

45 minutes

Sunday Feature

Episode and Playlist Information

• 26 Nov 06 Copenhagen
• 19 Nov 06 Factory 798
• 12 Nov 06 Wilfred Owen
• 29 Oct 06 Velazquez
• 22 Oct 06
• 8 Oct 06 Henze at 80
• 1 Oct 06 William Empson
• 24 Sep 06 The act of listening
• 27 Aug 06 Brecht
• 21 August 2006

Sunday Feature pages