A great performance

[sheenaghpugh]

Some folk on Planet Academia are sniffy about Billy Collins, finding him not complex and multi-layered enough. I think myself that this poem could both start and end a few lines in from where it does. But... it's funny and well-turned, and more to the point, a brilliant performance; his timing and delivery would do credit to a top stand-up. If I ever get the chance to go and hear him read, I certainly shall.

Comments

[anne berkeley (from livejournal.com)]

He is indeed a fantastic performer. AFAIK, he was a street performer (sc. of poetry) before he became well known.

Anne

[anne berkeley (from livejournal.com)]

Though on reflection, I can't substantiate that. I have a strong impression of hearing about him standing on Rockefeller plaza in the wind, trying to attract the attention of passers by, and that this had a profound effect on his work - but perhaps I have misremembered, or perhaps he wasn't being entirely literal.