Colin, thanks so much for the links! I enjoyed both songs. I've added to my list of things to study how melody, rhythm, and poetry fit together. I also am busy comparing "Sonnet (1979)" and "Moriturus" to "The Pine Planters".
Ross and Gregory, I will stay well away from the debate regarding the quality of Hardy's poetry. I did read
Larkin's essay which I enjoyed. I will say that when I struggle with a poem, I feel that it is a kind of training that can only expand my understanding of poetry.