To My Favorite 17-Year-Old High School Girl | Billy Collins

[noctalis_noctis]

Do you realize that if you had started

building the Parthenon on the day you were born

you would be all done in only two more years?

Of course, you would have needed lots of help,

so never mind, you’re fine just as you are.

You are loved for simply being yourself.

But did you know at your age Judy Garland

was pulling down $150,000 a picture,

Joan of Arc

Comments

[rosadina]

Probably not the goal of the author but it certainly makes you feel inadequate. Plus, I wouldn't be surprised if the 17 year old being told this bursts into tears. Certainly made me think.

[pluralize]

this is so beautiful

[burningmarl]

Looking at the other comments, I think I see more humour and sort of amused, exasperated fondness in the piece. I love it, it made me chuckle.