I have to say, I wasn't that impressed with Billy Collins. He had some funny poems and some unique language. He is a good presenter and his voice had a nice tenor but, overall, my brain did not find what it was looking for. I like a challenge; and since there was no challenge to be had, my A.D.D kicked in. I spent most of my time trying to figure out the audience. Their reactions were much more interesting than some of Collins' poems.
When my attention was drawn back to Collins, I found myself thinking of other popular poets I've never really cared for. To name a few: Shel Silverstein and (dare I say it) Dr. Seuss. Yes, you read that correctly. I did just say Dr. Seuss. As a child, I was exposed to these poets and was never really interested in their simplistic outlook. That being said, as an adult, I have learned that even poets we don't like can teach unexpected and unintended lessons.
Silverstein and Seuss both taught me lessons much later in life, and now I find that Billy Collins has a lesson for me as well. That is: It is important, as a teacher, to expose students to a variety of poems whether you like them or not. Exposure allows students to discover literature they both like and dislike. It is our job to present literature to the students and supply them with the tools that allow them to come to their own conclusions. Just because we don't like a particular piece of literature does not mean it is invaluable. Often, you learn more from what you don't like than what you do like.
P.S. And in tribute to Mr. Collins, my Improv for this week is about dogs.
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