Many works of fantasy literature feature a considerable number of embedded poems, some written by the authors themselves, some borrowed and transformed from other authors. Exploring the mechanisms of this mix and the interaction between individual poems and the overall narrative, this monograph analyses the various forms and functions of embedded poems in major works of fantasy literature. The choice of authors and texts shed light on the development of fantasy as a genre that frequently mixes prose and verse and thus continues the long tradition of prosimetric practices after the Romantic period. Not only does the analysis of the embedded poems allow for a new understanding of the individual works. It also promises insights into shared literary-historical roots, cross-influences between the authors and the role of the mix of poetry and prose for the imaginative and subversive potential of fantasy literature in general. Providing comprehensive case studies of the forms and functions of embedded poems in fantasy literature, this volume illuminates the emergence of modern fantasy and its impact on contemporary fantasy.

America tells its stories through song. Consolation to the lovelorn, courage to the oppressed, warning to the naive, or a ticket to the Promised Land, a great song can deliver the wisdom of ages directly to our souls. We Are the Music Makers! presents black-and-white portraits of artists who carry these songs from past to present: fathers and mothers, uncles and aunts, daughters and sons, grandparents and neighbors, who continue to lovingly stir the South's musical stew and feed American culture outside the realm of conventional fame and fortune. Newly available in paperback, this book features intimate photographs that will make you look more closely at the unrecognized greatness that surrounds us all.

Maka didn't talk much, but he loved to sing. Wherever he went, his beloved 'ukulele was by his side. And whenever he started to play and sing his song, "The Maka Shaka Shuffle," people would stop what they were doing and sing along¿ Point your thumb, now point your pinky. Shake it back and forth and give a little winky. It's the Maka Shaka Shuffle, oh yeah. The Maka Shaka Shuffle, uh huh. One day, a very big and very hungry pua'a entered his village and started chasing all his friends. Shy little Maka did the only thing he knew how and bravely saved his village from destruction. An audio CD with an original song by Domonic Vespoli, "Maka the Music Maker," and a reading by author Shannon Scott is included.

Music Makers examines and celebrates the extraordinary lives of composer Harry Freedman and his partner, soloist Mary Morrison. Harry, with roots in jazz and popular music, was a member of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra for 25 years. Canada’s Composer of the Year in 1979, he has written an enormous repertoire that celebrates Canada and is sung and played around the world. After a stellar career in Canada as a popular singer and opera diva, Mary became an esteemed exponent of Canadian vocal works. She was a prestigious mentor and teacher of young Canadians now appearing on famous opera stages worldwide. She received the League of Composers’ Music Citation in 1968 and won Canada’s major award as Opera Educator in 2002.

"Music Makers: Portraits and Songs from the Roots of America represents a new chapter in Americas ongoing interaction with our traditional musical culture. This book introduces a new cast of artists to dispel the notion that the most real and rooted blues no longer exists. We have turned on countless fans to these men and women, revealing new icons for lovers of this music to treasure. Through the years, many younger musicians have apprenticed with these artists and have gone on to make successful careers. We have people throughout the world to learn and to understand and to dig what we are doing. Our work needs to continue to grow, as these musicians remain vibrant, expressive, and vital to our American experience." --Amazon.com.