There is no such thing as a free poem
At least Not in these long teenage years filled to the brim with  
academic oppression
Teachers burrow into a poem searching for a deeper meaning forcing students into the depths with them
When in reality no deeper meaning needs to be found
The deeper meaning should be left where it belongs under the surface of the authors metaphors similies and other literary devices
The first thing we learn to enjoy in our youth is poetry such as nursery rhymes
What once caused giggles and restful nights of dream filled slumber  
Now only cause groaning and moaning as they have become tedious and mundane filled with hatred from students
Some teachers love poetry as if they are their lovers
dragging out the unit as long as they can
Much to the protest of the students
Others hate even the very thought of poetry
and even reading
So they nip the poetry unit
In the bud
Making it short
As possible