TED: Everyday moments, caught in time | Billy Collins

The video features a poet discussing the creation of animated poetry, sharing five poems with animations. The poet reflects on the creative process, the role of poetry in public spaces, and the challenges of combining poetry with other media. Each poem is introduced with a personal anecdote or insight, followed by a reading and brief analysis. The poet emphasizes the importance of making poetry accessible and engaging to a wider audience.

What was the speaker's initial reaction to the idea of animating his poems?

• He was excited and immediately agreed.

• He was resistant because he believed poetry should stand alone.

• He was indifferent and didn't care much.

• He was worried about the technical challenges.

What does the speaker suggest about poetry in public spaces?

• It should be kept away from public view.

• It should only be shared in poetry readings.

• It should be integrated into everyday life, like on buses and billboards.

• It should be limited to books and libraries.

In the poem 'Budapest,' what does the speaker compare the pen to?

• A strange animal

• A dancing figure

• A flowing river

• A musical instrument

What humorous observation does the speaker make about writing in 'Budapest'?

• It is a skill everyone possesses.

• It is a task for the lazy.

• It is harder than it seems.

• It is as easy as breathing.

What imagery is used in the poem 'Some Days'?

• A crowded marketplace

• Dollhouse furniture

• A serene landscape

• A bustling city

What theme is explored in the poem 'Forgetfulness'?

• The joy of learning

• The complexity of emotions

• The inevitability of memory loss

• The excitement of discovery

In 'Forgetfulness,' what is described as the first to go?

• The characters in a book

• The setting of a novel

• The name of the author

• The plot of a story

What advice does the speaker's friend give in 'The Country'?

• Never leave food out for mice.

• Always lock your doors at night.

• Don't leave matches lying around.

• Keep your windows closed.

What is the speaker's view on witnessing one's own funeral in 'The Dead'?

• It is a joyful occasion.

• It is a bad start to the afterlife.

• It is a comforting thought.

• It is a necessary experience.

In the poem addressed to a 17-year-old, what does the speaker compare the girl's achievements to?

• Building a skyscraper

• Leading a nation

• Historical figures like Joan of Arc

• Writing a novel