Question

Read the excerpt from Billy Collins’s “Man Listening to Disc.”

In fact, I would say
my delight at being suffused
with phrases from his saxophone—
some like honey, some like vinegar—
is surpassed only by my gratitude

to Tommy Potter for taking the time
to join us on this breezy afternoon
with his most unwieldy bass
and to the esteemed Arthur Taylor
who is somehow managing to navigate

this crowd with his cumbersome drums.

Which of the following suggestions would best enhance a reader’s understanding of this poem?
Read a variety of sources about the style and instruments used by jazz musicians.
Search medical journals to learn how different types of music can affect a person’s mood.
Review case studies on hearing loss due to the prolonged listening of loud music.
Evaluate several poems to learn about the techniques authors use to convey their ideas.

Answer 1

Read a variety of sources about the style and instruments used by jazz musicians.

Knowing the instruments, typical roles (saxophone, bass, drums), and stylistic conventions of jazz will illuminate the poem’s references (e.g., “phrases from his saxophone,” the roles of Tommy Potter and Arthur Taylor) and deepen appreciation of the music-related imagery.