Poems That Illuminate the Magic of Watching TV

The box in our living rooms

Television has woven itself seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives, captivating us with its captivating stories, transporting us to distant places, and connecting us to a world beyond our own. From the flickering black and white screens of yesteryear to the vibrant high-definition displays of today, television has become a powerful source of inspiration for poets to explore and express the complexities of human existence. In this article, we will delve into a selection of remarkable poems that capture the essence of watching TV.

1. "The Remote Control" by Billy Collins

In his signature witty and accessible style, former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins takes us on a journey through the channels of life with "The Remote Control." He playfully explores how effortlessly we transition from one show to another, often without fully absorbing the content. Collins reminds us of the paradox that while we are physically present in our homes, our minds can be whisked away to a myriad of captivating stories, leaving us feeling both disconnected and entertained.

Excerpt:

"Yet all along the couches and chairs,
we sit with our remotes like emissaries
from a distant, futuristic land,
and though we are not really in the shows
but in our own houses, we are content."

2. "Watching Television" by Wisława Szymborska

Polish Nobel laureate Wisława Szymborska, known for her profound introspection, turns her gaze towards the television screen in her poem "Watching Television." She delves into the duality of this medium, highlighting how it can simultaneously bring people together and isolate them. Szymborska reflects on the power of television to shape our perception of reality, blurring the line between the virtual and the tangible.

Excerpt:

"The living room is less and less a living room.
It resembles anything you like at any time of day or night.
The screen is not a window onto the world
but works like a mirror of the world in the world."

3. "Television" by Roald Dahl

Renowned children's author Roald Dahl takes a humorous and satirical approach in his poem "Television." He pokes fun at the all-consuming nature of television, highlighting the way it captivates young minds and distracts them from the wonders of the real world. Dahl reminds us of the importance of imagination and the need to balance the screen's allure with the beauty of the natural world.

Excerpt:

"So please, oh please, we beg, we pray,
Go throw your TV set away,
And in its place, you can install
A lovely bookshelf on the wall."

4. "The Angel of TV" by Adrienne Rich

Adrienne Rich's poem "The Angel of TV" explores the complex relationship we have with this electronic companion. Rich delves into the emotional connection many viewers develop with characters on the screen, as well as the capacity of television to serve as a distraction from our own lives. She poses thought-provoking questions about the impact of this medium on our perception of reality and our ability to empathize with others.

Excerpt:

"O Angel of television
shield me from the computer
shield me from the telephone
shield me from the world"

Poetry has a unique way of capturing the intricacies of human experiences, including the act of watching television. These poems, among countless others, offer us a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of this beloved medium. They remind us to be mindful of the ways in which television can both connect and disconnect us from ourselves and the world around us. So, the next time you find yourself mesmerized by the screen, take a moment to ponder its impact and perhaps even pen your own poetic reflection on the magic of watching TV.