Whale Day: And Other Poems

I began reading and writing poetry in earnest after I first encountered the poetry of Billy Collins, Tony Hoagland, Ted Kooser, Ed Hirsch, Charles Bukowski, Li-Young Lee, and Yusef Komunyakaa. I own most of Collins’ books and when I need a breather from life or simply need inspiration for my own writing, I turn to poems like “The Best Cigarette” and “The Afterlife.” As Collins says in his MasterClass, poetry is the history of the human heart, and that’s what I find in the “Whale Day” poems…the reflections of a gentleman’s heart. Collins helps us contemplate our mortality and the tiny little world that surrounds us. This is where we can find peace, especially in light of the pandemic. If you need a break from everything that is weighing you down, I recommend a cup of tea, a comfy chair, and “Whale Day.”

Another disappointing mail-it-in collection by a poet whose playfulness I used to love. The “I” in these poems is so loud and prominent, the reader is in danger of being spooked and taking refuge in whatever navel Collins is gazing into these days. Personal confessional poetry is one thing, but by the end, I wished Collins would dare to write a single verse that wasn’t somehow self-referential (and often cloying).

I am a great fan of Billy Collins. This book is not his best work. There are a few poems that are good, but hardly enough to justify reading(and for that matter buying) this book. If, like me, you are a former fan, check it out in the library but don\’t be surprised. The clear majority of the poems deal with death and lack Collins\’ usual move from the particular, initial topic to the more philosophical, emphatic conclusion stimulated by that initial situation.

\”Whale Days and Other Poems.\” I\’ve read and listened to Billy Collins periodically over the years, always admiring his offhanded approach to modern poetry. His appeal is wider than deep, in my estimation, and \”Whale Days . . . \” follows a glibness that is pleasing more than philosophical. He is a perfect example of \”everyone\’s favorite poet.\”

Billy Collins is a favorite poet of mine anyway, but Whale Day did NOT disappoint! His use of prose paints the most amazing pictures. The little surprise twists are whimsical. Truly a joy to read from cover to cover and then cover to cover again! Certainly this will be a permanent addition to my poetry collection.

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