Books Quote by Billy Collins
“Poetry is my cheap means of transportation, by the end of the poem the reader should be in a different place from where he started. I would like him to be slightly disoriented at the end, like I drove him outside of town at night and dropped him off in a cornfield.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Art of Poetry” by Billy Collins, 2005
Poetry should transport readers to new mental landscapes, leaving them slightly disoriented, like a nighttime drive to an unexpected destination.
In simple terms: Poetry moves readers to unexpected places.
Key Takeaway
Use vivid imagery to shift perspective.
Themes
creativity
transport
disorientation
Mood
playful
thoughtful
Type
inspirational
creative
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- classroom lessons
- personal reflection
- public readings
Key Concepts
narrative shift
imagery
mental travel
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you guide a reader gently into disorientation?
- What images best evoke a sudden change of place?
A Different Perspective
Readers may feel confused if the shift is too abrupt.
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