I think Mac was the most passionate graduates I'd ever had the pleasure of working with. He was extremely sharp and recognized students genuinely dedicated to the subject. I was the only one participating in the 8AM section for this class. I can thank the bike ride to class for giving me the energy, I guess. Everyone else was half-asleep/quiet.

I didn't feel he made any sense during section ever. He does know a lot about poetry structure, but he didn't help me understand our lectures any better. Never any discussion in class he just talks the whole time, and repeats things he's said on previous days.

Mac is one of the funniest, most intelligent teachers one could ever have - reading other comments from students who appear to have fallen in love with him, I'm not surprised. And he knows more about literature, especially poetry, than anyone around.

Initially Mac is intimidating, yet intriguing. He seems to know something about everything and is willing to share that knowledge with you. Difficult grader at first, but just to get you thinking. I always loved listening to him because I felt like I was getting smarter by hearing him speak. Awesome mind, but only somewhat helpful in class setting.

Mac Oliver is one of the best professors I have ever had in my life. He is a brilliant man, and you will get a valuable education in his class. He is a rare breed of professor: Easy workload and you learn plenty. His lectures are highly interesting. He is one of the two best English lecturers at UCSB. I hope he teaches more courses.

If you like literature, definateily take the class with him. If not, like me, do not take,'cause the guy is all about the f...... poetry.