Question

The poem Fast Break by Edward Hirsch was written to honor Dennis Turner, the authors friend. How does this information affect your understanding of the poems closing image?

Answer 1

In light of the fact that "Fast Break" was written to honor Dennis Turner, the closing lines could be interpreted as a symbolic reference to life not lived in vain. The player is "inexplicably falling", a reference to Dennis' sudden death. But as he tumbles down he looks up to see the ball going through the net. He lived a consequential life.