henryerickson's review against another edition
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.25
adriagoetz's review against another edition
5.0
Though it was Collins' first collection of poetry, I think it is my favorite. I often love poets' first books. They're never as polished, but I think that makes them have more flavor. If you are interested in poetry, you need to read this book!
alexandra_avital's review against another edition
3.0
The main issue with this book is that I started with Collins’ later books and moved backward until I got to this one. There isn’t anything inherently wrong with the writing but it is more self conscious and stilted than his later work. The poems are good but rarely have those enchanting whimsical turns that he is known for (now). If I had read this book first, I would have loved it and eagerly grabbed for more but having read it last, it just makes me wistful for his other work. The poems are very good. They just don’t so much as stir the soul as create small ripples. In short, read this if you are a diehard fan or looking for a place to start with his works or want to see the evolution of his writing.
jennybeastie's review against another edition
5.0
I was looking for language and wry humor and Billy Collins fit the bill. This time and every time, he delivers the sublime and the ridiculous.
bibliocyclist's review
3.0
He moves from paragraph to paragraph
as if touring a house of endless, panelled rooms.
Imagine squatting in the wasteland
of Pluto, all five tons of you,
or wandering around Mercury
wondering what to do next with your ounce.
as if touring a house of endless, panelled rooms.
Imagine squatting in the wasteland
of Pluto, all five tons of you,
or wandering around Mercury
wondering what to do next with your ounce.
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