Herman Beavers - Teachers Make a Difference - Michael S. Harper

The speaker reflects on their mentor, Michael S Harper, a renowned African American poet. Harper's critique of a poem about John Coltrane taught the speaker to find their own voice and value personal experience. Harper emphasized understanding familial and national histories and that one's best work may lie ahead due to life experiences. The speaker appreciates Harper's influence on their ongoing poetry journey.

What was the speaker's initial interaction with Michael S. Harper about?

• A play about college life

• A poem about John Coltrane

• A novel about African American history

• A short story about family

What did Michael S. Harper emphasize about personal experience?

• It should be shared with everyone

• It is less important than academic achievements

• It should be ignored in favor of national history

• It is crucial for finding one's voice

According to Harper, what is the relationship between personal and national histories?

• They are identical

• They are irrelevant to each other

• They are intertwined

• They are completely separate

What realization did the speaker have about their poetry career?

• Their best work is behind them

• They have achieved all they can

• Their best work is still ahead

• They should stop writing poetry

How did Harper's mentorship influence the speaker's view on future achievements?

• It made them doubt their abilities

• It encouraged them to explore new genres

• It led them to focus solely on past successes

• It helped them appreciate the potential of future work