Focusing on the present - In the Evening By Billy Collins

In "In the Evening" by Billy Collins, the poet directs the reader's attention to the present moment through vivid and detailed descriptions of various scenes. In the characteristic way of a Billy Collins poem, it is simple still very meaningful. The poet captures quiet and serene moments of the evening and the prods the reader to think about life. The imagery of drooping roses, a resting bee, traces of clouds, and other elements creates a sensory experience that anchors the reader in the present. By mentioning the past and the future as "an only child with two different masks," Collins suggests that the present is the only moment that truly exists, encouraging readers to appreciate and immerse themselves in the present moment. 

In the Evening

By Billy Collins

The heads of roses begin to droop.
The bee who has been hauling her gold
all day finds a hexagon in which to rest.

In the sky, traces of clouds,
the last few darting birds,
watercolors on the horizon.

The white cat sits facing a wall.
The horse in the field is asleep on its feet.

I light a candle on the wood table.
I take another sip of wine.
I pick up an onion and a knife.

And the past and the future?
Nothing but an only child with two different masks.