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I also loved this poem and some of his others. I believe there are many different ways to 'appreciate' poetry, and all of you are correct, in your own way. For me, Michael's explanations helped, both in teaching me new concepts/ideas, and refreshing old ones...and yes, understanding these ideas helped greatly 'break down' and explain the poem better, thereby giving me greater appreciation of its depth and hidden meanings.
There are also those who just wish to read the poem and gather what they may at that time, perhaps returning again to enjoy. Not all of us are intellects or academics who enjoy tearing things apart (and Shakespeare is MUCH more enjoyed when one understands all of the underlying social and political messages inherent in almost all Shakespeare, even some of his sonnets, let alone the bawdy and often coarse references he uses) .
So, as the reader from Palestine said (and well said indeed, and how COOL to see someone from Palestine here! !) , our discussion, heated though it may be, brings the poet to life once again, and from I've read of him, he would much enjoy this brief resurrection. All replies and retorts welcome!