Random Bookshelf Reading 33

Random Bookshelf Reading 33

Question:  Today?

Answer: "Many of the responses were witty, some predictable; most, it seemed to me, were self-limiting.  One young man stressed technical proficiency above all else--he saw a poem as a well-oiled machine having only to do with precision.  Nothing could persuade him of the legitimacy of open forms, nor that poems might do something other than describe.  Nevertheless, the discussion that resulted had the desired effect: to allow the students to begin to think about and examine what the role of the poet (and of poetry) might be in a consumer-driven economy.  The precarious life of the "free-lance muse" gave them an opportunity to think about the life of a poet as other than a professional career.  We had a very lively discussion." (p.29, 30)

From The Practice of Poetry:  Writing Exercises from Who Teach edited by Robin Behn & Chase Twichell.



Disclaimer:  Readings are for entertainment purposes only.  You (the person reading the Random Bookshelf Readings) are solely responsible for actions taken based on these readings; neither Anne Westlund or The Divine Life Google Group and its members are liable.  These readings are from my personal bookshelves (not sourced from the internet) and only one paragraph from each book will be posted, in rotating order (up to two times a year for some books).  Any questions or comments, please reply to this post. ~Anne Westlund