Musical Tables: Poems

Author: Billy Collins
Length: 176 pages
Publication Date: First published November 15, 2022

Book Summary: Musical Tables: Poems

A remarkable anthology featuring over 125 original poems awaits readers, each piece distilled to its emotional core. This collection comes from the esteemed former United States Poet Laureate and New York Times bestselling author of Aimless Love, Billy Collins.

In his own reflective words, Collins expresses a personal affinity for shorter poetry: “Whenever I open a book of poems, I tend to flip through looking for the small ones.” Just as one might admire an abstract artist who can faithfully depict a simple chicken, Collins finds trust in poets who can convey profound thoughts in concise forms.

Collins’s style is instantly recognizable; his amiable tone, light-hearted approach, and surprising conclusions create a distinctive reading experience. As poet Alice Fulton aptly remarks, Collins reinvigorates profundity with a sense of playfulness. His work often begins with the familiar and mundane, only to journey into the extraordinary, much like the iconic transition from Kansas to Oz.

Now hailed as America’s favorite poet by The Wall Street Journal, Collins embraces a new poetic format: the small poem. Within this collection, he explores his signature themes—nature, animals, poetry, mortality, absurdity, and love—each encapsulated in just a few lines. Although these pieces are neither traditional haikus nor limericks, they exemplify poetry’s remarkable ability to distill emotional and conceptual depth into a compact form.

With inspiration drawn from a diverse range of writers, including William Carlos Williams, W.S. Merwin, Kay Ryan, and Charles Simic, Musical Tables showcases over 125 new works that reflect Collins’s unique voice. This collection marks an exciting new chapter in the career of one of our most celebrated poets.

One example of his brevity and depth is captured in the poem:
3:00 AM
Only my hand
is asleep,
but it’s a start.

Download in PDF or Audible Format: Musical Tables: Poems

The book Musical Tables: Poems by Billy Collins is now available for download in PDF format or to listen to for free on Audible via Amazon. Explore the enchanting verses of Collins’ poetry at your convenience. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this remarkable work in the format that suits you best.

What readers are saying about Musical Tables: Poems

"Musical Tables: Poems" has garnered a generally favorable reception among readers. Many appreciate the lyrical quality and imaginative themes that the author brings to life, creating a captivating experience that resonates on multiple levels. The poems often explore complex emotions and vivid imagery, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the text and reflect on their own experiences. While some may find certain pieces more impactful than others, the overall craftsmanship and creativity displayed throughout the collection are frequently praised. It’s a work that appeals to those who enjoy thought-provoking poetry, making it a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.