Arrogant, I think I have written lines which qualify me to be The Poetess of America (as Ted will be The Poet of England and her dominions).
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
It's a big statement if you use the word 'America' in the title of your poem.
American poetry to me is a sort of relentless, nonstop sermon on human autonomy.
American poetry is this country's greatest patrimony. It takes a stranger to see some things clearly. This is one of them, and I am that stranger.
But Wordsworth is the poet I admire above all others.
I think the best American poetry is the poetry that utilizes the resources of poetry rather than exploits the defects or triumphs of the poet's personality.
One can be a great poet and be politically stupid.
I am a patriot, but I must say that English poetry is the richest in the world.
I'm very proud of the fact that I'm one of Britain's biggest selling poets. That gives me a huge amount of pleasure.
If everybody became a poet the world would be much better. We would all read to each other.
I defer to all these other American poets who, for some reason, I both envy and admire.