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Greenwolfe 1962 (9/1/2008 3:55:00 AM)
I just heard the name of Billy Collins a few weeks ago, and I thought that at
some point I would read one of his better poems before making any comment on him. This is the poem I chose to read and these are my first comments. In the
first place, I noticed this was not a poem. It is prose. Second, he decides that
the purpose of this is to talk about forgetfulness. So, that is what he does. He says some things about it, but at the end he really has no revelation to convey.
His clarity was good for the most part. There are no particular things that one
might wish to remember from this piece. Perhaps, he has decided that since
things are all going to be forgotten anyway, there is no point in being memorable.
If that were the purpose of this piece then it may be remembered. Otherwise,
it shall be another victim of its title.
GW62 |
Robert Howard (6/17/2008 11:43:00 PM)
I'm 64 and there's just no saying, 'it ain't so' because it just is. |
Nathan Markowitz (11/13/2007 9:25:00 PM)
Wow. So true. I am only an 8th grader and I appreciate your work. That's a realy good thing, |
Chlorophylled Planz (10/30/2007 1:59:00 AM)
I forgot how I clicked here but it was worth the dropp in thanks.. lucky I go places One Peace at a time... |
Cheryl Moyer (7/15/2007 9:23:00 AM)
Billy -
Your name showed up on the bottom of my page, stating people who read your poems also read mine. Wow, they must just be clicking around. Your poetry is so skillful, its obvious you've put years of passion into perfecting this emerging American pastime, the poetic arts!
Best wishes - xxxxxCheryl |
Margaret Newcomb (6/24/2007 12:26:00 PM)
Mr Collins,
I heard you on NPR and was moved to writing. You've inspired me, not beyond words, but to them. The essence of your writing has gone straight to my very core. As if I've known you so very long. Thank you. |
No not this time (11/11/2006 12:47:00 PM)
I was going to say something really perceptive here, but.... now I have an excuse... terrific stuff. Clever, funny and not a word wasted. Thanks, jim. |
Melvina Germain (10/19/2006 8:43:00 PM)
I can certainly relate to this, now I promise myself I won't forget this poem, but who am I kidding.
Excellent work
Melvina |
Brian Dorn (7/22/2006 12:32:00 PM)
I think everyone over the age of 40 can relate to this. Great poem... but one I'll probably forget. |
Brian Purdy (5/21/2006 10:44:00 AM)
The idea that we gradually lose from our hearts the lines of our favourite love-poems, as well as other precious contents as we grow old and forgetful is simply heart-breaking. I am reminded of a Borges' poem called 'Limits'. But, of course, there is a funny side to the human condition and Collins finds it here. His image of memories retiring to a 'little fishing village where there are no phones' is lovely. This was the seventh Billy Collins poem I read in a single go and first I found to which I could truly say: Yes! Think I will carry it around with me for the rest of the day - that is, if I don't forget it...B.Purdy. |
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