1.) The most influential person in my life has always been my mother. She has always been there for me and to give me advice when I need it. This may be because she lives with me, but that is beside the point.

2.) I think Mr. Keating says this because he believes that there is some higher purpose to reading and writing poetry. I do not agree, I do, and always think, that poetry is a waste of time.

3.) I agree with Keating in this scenario, that there is always a different point of view, two sides to a story. One must always remember that your view is not always the only one. I do not have a personal story to share at this time.

4.) As of this point in time, I do not really know what my "verse" will be. I only hope that it will be a good one in the coming years.