Poetry Personified

• My working thesis it something like this: Through the use of certain literary devices, Billy Collins begs the reader of "Introduction to Poetry" to analyze his poem even though the initial perception of the message encourages enjoying poetry superficially. The problem that I have come across is the issue of "dividing an educated audience."  I would love feedback if anyone has any wild ideas!

Collins watching us destroy poetry.

                                                                

• The first section after the introduction will discuss some of the literary devices Collins uses, specifically personification.  I will point out how Collins personifies poetry and then discuss the effects of this. The way he brings poetry to life is meant to play on our humanity.  

Poetry brought to life.

•  Next I want to discuss others works of literature that use personification and how this is similar to the effects created by Billy Collins. I have not researched other examples of personification just yet.

• I would then discuss different literary devices he uses that support my claim.  I will discuss word choice, form, sound, and enjambment. These effects, along with personification, have led to further analysis--the exact opposite of what Collins was asking for.

                                                                

This stanza stands alone.

• I will conclude that while these different devices led to further analysis, poetry should lead to enlightenment. Enlightenment is not torture.