The College Professor Who Taught Astral Weeks As Literature In His Poetry Class

April 1, 2025

In a quiet college nestled between rolling hills, there was a poetry professor named Dr. Samuel Harris. He was known for his unconventional teaching style, often straying from the rigid curriculum to embrace the beauty of words found in music. One day, he decided to introduce his students to something extraordinary—Van Morrison’s iconic album, “Astral Weeks.” The moment he played the haunting melody of “Sweet Thing,” the classroom filled with a sense of magic, and the students felt transported to another world.

Dr. Harris passionately explained how “Astral Weeks” was not just an album but a rich tapestry of poetry and emotion. He shared stories of its creation, revealing that Van Morrison had poured his heart into the music during a challenging time in his life. Just as Dr. Harris spoke of the artist’s struggles and triumphs, the students began to see the album not only as a collection of beautiful songs but as a reflection of Van Morrison’s resilience. They learned that the singer had faced rejection and uncertainty in his early career, yet he persevered, driven by a deep love for music and expression.

This lesson ignited a spark in the students. They became eager to explore their own creativity and express themselves, echoing the themes of love, loss, and hope that Morrison so beautifully captured. Some began to write their own poems inspired by the album, while others found the bravery to share their feelings in class discussions. The room buzzed with energy, each person inspired by the story of an artist who had once felt lost but found his path through music.

As weeks went by, the students delved deeper into the album. They dissected the lyrics, discussing how Morrison used vivid imagery and raw emotion to paint his experiences. They learned about the fusion of jazz, folk, and blues in the music, understanding how it broke boundaries and changed the landscape of popular music. It wasn’t just an assignment anymore; it became a journey of self-discovery for many. They looked up Van Morrison, listened to his interviews, and learned that after releasing “Astral Weeks,” he faced skepticism from critics but continued to create, eventually emerging as one of the most influential artists of his time.

One day, Dr. Harris invited a surprise guest—a local musician who had been inspired by Van Morrison’s work. The musician spoke passionately about how “Astral Weeks” had influenced his own life and career. He shared stories of late-night jam sessions, struggles with self-doubt, and the pure joy of playing music that spoke to the heart. The students listened, eyes wide with admiration, realizing that they were part of an ongoing legacy of artists who dared to dream and create despite the odds.

By the end of the semester, something magical had happened. The poetry class transformed into a close-knit community of budding artists, each inspired to embrace their voices. Through the story of Van Morrison and the lessons learned from his music, they discovered the power of resilience. It was a reminder that creativity often emerges from struggle, and with passion and perseverance, they too could carve their paths in the world. As they said goodbye to Dr. Harris and each other, they carried with them the spirit of “Astral Weeks,” ready to face the future with hope and courage.