Understanding Poetry and Teaching Methods

The speaker reflects on the influence of teachers on their poetry writing, noting that discouragement from some teachers fueled their determination to succeed. They discuss the problematic emphasis on interpretation in poetry education, suggesting a focus on the poem's journey rather than its meaning. This approach encourages students to engage with poetry more naturally, without the pressure of finding a 'correct' interpretation.

What did the speaker find more motivating than approval?

• Support

• Recognition

• Revenge

• Encouragement

What significant event did the speaker recall when they became Poet Laureate?

• Meeting a famous poet

• Publishing their first book

• Receiving a call from the librarian of Congress

• Winning a poetry contest

What is the traditional focus in teaching poetry that the speaker criticizes?

• Memorization

• Writing

• Interpretation

• Recitation

According to the speaker, what is a negative effect of asking 'What does a poem mean?'

• It enhances understanding

• It promotes discussion

• It makes students nervous

• It encourages creativity

What alternative question does the speaker suggest for understanding poetry?

• When was the poem written?

• Who is the poem's author?

• How does a poem get where it's going?

• What is the poem's theme?