Problem
I observed that in my experience, a question like, "What is your favorite movie?" or "What music do you like to listen to?" can lead to an enjoyable conversation, while asking, "What is your favorite poem?" or "Who is your favorite poet?" is more likely to result in awkward silence, or at least a looooooooong pause before there is an answer.
I would like you to experiment to test that hypothesis. Here are the instructions for carrying out the experiment:
Research and Reporting
I. Ask 10 people (family, friends, acquaintances, or total strangers -just one question to record their response: "What is your favorite poem?" And then answer their reaction towards the poem from person 1 to person 10.
II. Pay attention and keep a record of their response:
How long did the silence last?
Did their response begin with a filler like, "ummmm..." or "Hmmm...let me think about that"?
Were they able to name a specific poem and the poet?
Were they able to recite the poem?
III. Keep a list of any poems or poets that are mentioned. ( Lucille Clifton, Mary Oliver, Ursula K. Le Guin).
IV. Title your thread either "Hypothesis Supported" (mostly awkward silences!) or "Hypothesis Denied" (mostly clear and enthusiastic responses!)
V. In your thread, give a short summary of your research experience and results, and include a list of any poems or poets your interview subjects were able to produce.