Meg (Agnes Bruckner) is an average teen making do in the wake of her parents’ divorce. When her English teacher, Mr. Auster (David Strathairn), becomes interested in her poetry and offers to help her with her writing, Meg turns to his attentions like a flower to the sun. When tragedy unfolds at home, she finds in him the approval, faith and enthusiasm she craves. She doesn’t stop to think about what Mr. Auster hopes to find in her.
Poetry student being raised by distant and flaky single mom uses poetry to process feelings about her broken home life. Her poetry piques the interest of her 40-something high school lit teacher, himself married to an alcoholic and distant wife. He encourages the student’s talent to the point of taking advantage of her sexually. She dresses him down in public, via the power of her poetry. No thanks.