Billy Collins is a great introduction to contemporary poetry. He uses plain language and simple straightforward structure that treats a first-time poetry reader nicely. It’s good training for the reader unaccustomed to how poetry communicates, transmitting some of the same rhetorical complexities of most poetry in a sleek, unimposing form. Collins’ writing is witty and often serene. And now and again he somehow ends up being profound. I find myself returning to him when my mind wants a lazy Sunday stroll.

Since my first reading, I have heard some complaints about how Collins treats certain subjects. Only one of his poems comes to mind, one where he objectifies a woman/women in an image that works toward the greater point of the poem. Not all objectification is pornographic. It is often emotional or intellectual but objectification all the same. So I understand that some of these criticisms are warranted. ( )

Pretty good, for poetry. ( )

Billy Collins is one of my favorite poets for playfully constructing evocative but easy-to-understand imagery in his poetry. He writes about everyday experiences, putting a fresh spin on them, and doesn't take himself too seriously. He is in fine form in this collection, which may be my favorite of those I've read so far. ( )

National Poetry Month! Billy Collins is delightful and this collection, though 10 years old, is still a good touchstone of his talents and themes. He is not afraid to poke fun at the seriousness with which people regard poetry (witness the title) and he has a sense of play and whimsy -- almost as if his poems happen to him by accident. His subjects have depth, but he is good at undercutting heaviness with a dose of levity. To hear/see him read and add the effective pause, touch of sarcasm, or deadpan expression is a treat. One of my all-time favorite contemporary poems is The Lanyard, found here. Is there anything more serious than mother-love? Yet Collins renders it poignant instead of schmaltzy with lines like: "Here are thousands of meals, she said, and here is clothing and a good education. And here is your lanyard, I replied, which I made with a little help from a counselor." Other worthwhile titles here include: Genius, The Revenant (about a revenge-seeking dog), Monday. Billy Collins makes anything fair game for a poem and the new perspective it provides. ( )

A delightful book of easy to read and understand poems. I felt like I was getting to know Billy, that he was opening his heart to me. I kept the book in my bag for weeks and reread the poems when at the bus stop, Dr waiting room or having coffee. ( )