Nicole Sealey reads "Distant Lover"

The transcript discusses John Murillo's poem 'Distant Lover', exploring themes of object permanence and love through vivid, sexual imagery of February. The poem is set against a backdrop of stark winter scenes, with elements like icicles, animals, and snow described in a sensual manner. The narrative weaves through a late-night call, connecting the personal with the universal, and concludes with a powerful depiction of a small town in winter.

What is the primary theme introduced in the beginning of the poem 'Distant Lover'?

• A late-night call from a distant place

• The beauty of nature

• The concept of object permanence in love

• The harshness of winter

Which of the following is NOT described as sexual in the poem's exploration of February?

• Icicles skirting the barn

• Animals huddled inside

• The bright moon

• The sound of a plow

How does the poem describe the trees during February?

• Burning in the sunlight

• Full of leaves

• Stark naked with branches spread

• Covered in snow

What imagery is used to describe the snow by the road?

• White and pure

• Blackened by city workers

• Melting under the sun

• Covered in footprints

What is the final image presented in the poem?

• A snowman in a midnight yard

• The moon shining brightly

• Animals shivering inside

• Small town windows fogging