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Analysis and comments on Directions by Billy Collins

Comment 2 of 2, added on January 12th, 2006 at 2:45 PM.

This poem can also be read as a lovely metaphor for the process of
teaching. I teach painting, and I often feel as though I am describing
something that can only be completely and truly understood through personal
physical experience. I try to give my students "direction," and I go part
of the way with them. Then it's time to watch them go on their own,
finding their own unique path. And I certainly have opportunity to reflect
(every semester) on the "entities that continue to return/greener than
ever"!

I imagine that this poem opens itself up to many such readings. It evokes
an intimate relationship based on the desire to share what is most
beautiful with someone else. (Kay Ryan also has a nice poem about this
very thing, the title of which escapes me at the moment).

Thanks for reading.

Nancy from United States
Comment 1 of 2, added on February 25th, 2005 at 4:03 PM.

What a sweet poem! I cannot add anything more to this comment!!

Rao from United States



Information about Directions

Poet: Billy Collins
Poem: Directions
Volume: Sailing Alone Around the Room
Added: May 7 2003
Viewed: 5476 times
Poem of the Day: Mar 2 2009


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