The gap between verse and poetry is enormous. Between good poetry and good prose the gap is much narrower
Michael LongleyFor me the form, the stanzaic shape, is an endorsement, proof that I'm engaged with the Latin or Greek at an original level, that my versions are explorations.
Michael LongleyI work hard to make the poems as good as they can be, and if they're not good enough I scrap them. I find it difficult after a gap of a few years to tinker - I'm more likely to destroy.
Michael LongleyEvery Monday morning I try to remember to say "Thank you, Lord. I'm not at the Senior Staff Meeting."
Michael Longley