"Afternoon with Irish Cows" first appeared in Billy Collins' fourth poetry collection Picnic, Lightning (1998). Notably, the original cover of the collection depicts an open, gold-colored field with animals grazing, which visually captures the imagery in "Afternoon with Irish Cows." Collins himself is from an Irish family and has spent time in the country teaching poetry.
"Afternoon with Irish Cows" is largely about the value of observing nature. Many people might have overlooked this field of cows, but Collins observes the cows' behavior, questioning what they are doing. One cow makes a strange sound as if it is in pain, but Collins suggests that this is an expression of its identity. The speaker describes the field of cows in detail, even suggesting that the cows are "mysterious" and "patient." He suggests that the cows have a personality of their own and that they are one part of a broader, pure natural landscape.
The speaker's observations of the cows in the poem are a reminder of the importance of being present at the moment, of being mindful and not distracted. Collins suggests that cows have an inner life and encourages the reader to look beyond the surface of their appearance. He also conveys the idea that nature is more than just a physical space, but also a source of spiritual comfort. By appreciating the beauty of the cows, the speaker is able to find peace and solace, as well as consider his own identity.
Billy Collins is an American poet who is known for his humorous, conversational poems. Although his poems often have a witty or ironic tone, they make sharp observations about everyday life and human behavior. "Afternoon with Irish Cows" exemplifies Collins' unique method of focusing in on a specific, seemingly mundane moment and reflecting on its thematic importance.
