Epic, Ode, or Something New: The Blending of Genres in Thomson's "Spring."

The author discusses the poetic genres and the poem "The Seasons," by James Thomson. The author argues that "The Seasons" is not an epic poem. The genre of 18th century long poems is discussed. "The Seasons" is compared to other poems that are considered long poetry, including "The Excursion," by David Mallet. The criticism that "The Seasons" received by 18th century critics is presented.