Meaning: This quote by Howard Nemerov reflects a lighthearted and self-deprecating attitude toward his own work as a poet. Nemerov acknowledges the common perception that poetry often requires multiple readings to fully grasp its meaning, but he humorously appreciates the student's straightforward approach to his own poems, implying that they may be more accessible or easier to understand than those of other modern poets.

Howard Nemerov (1920-1991) was an American poet, essayist, and novelist who served as the Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, which is now known as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry. He was known for his wit, intelligence, and versatility in his poetry, often exploring themes of nature, history, and the human experience with a keen observational eye.

In the context of this quote, Nemerov seems to be acknowledging the potential simplicity or directness of his own poetry, which may have made it more approachable for the student tasked with writing a term paper on a modern poet. Nemerov's wry sense of humor shines through as he playfully accepts the student's reasoning for choosing his work as the subject of their assignment.

The quote also suggests that Nemerov's poetry could be readily comprehensible upon first reading, which can be interpreted in a few ways. It may indicate that his poetry is clear and straightforward in its language and themes, eschewing the need for multiple readings to unravel its meaning. Alternatively, it could imply that his poetry possesses an immediate impact or resonance that doesn't require extensive analysis to appreciate.

Nemerov's comment on the student's ability to "handle" his poems in one try also hints at the idea that his work is not overly complex or inaccessible, which aligns with his reputation for creating poetry that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. This accessibility may have contributed to Nemerov's popularity among readers and students alike, as his work could be engaging without being overly opaque or difficult to interpret.

Overall, Nemerov's quote illustrates his modesty and sense of humor regarding his own poetic works. It also sheds light on his approachability as a poet, suggesting that his writing may be more readily understandable or relatable compared to some of his contemporaries. This insight into Nemerov's perspective offers a glimpse into his personality and the qualities that made his poetry appealing to a wide audience.