I think in terms of educating a group of readers, MFA programs are very good. I just think the model of MFA programs in which a young poet goes through the program, publishes a series of books, gets teaching jobs, that's a bit at risk.
Edward HirschPoetry connects us to what is deepest in ourselves. It gives us access to our own feelings, which are often shadowy, and engages us in the art of making meaning. It widens the space of our inner lives. It is a magical, mysterious, inexplicable (though not incomprehensible) event in language.
Edward HirschAnd when I'm writing well and when I'm inside the feeling, then I can do fairly complicated things with some fluency.
Edward HirschI think the culture can absorb so many people writing poetry and trying to earn their living in poetry.
Edward Hirsch