Final answer:
The speaker in 'failing and flying' does not see a failed relationship as a failure in life, but as a part of one's journey. The poem emphasizes that the act of loving and the experiences gained are valuable, supporting the answer as False.
Step-by-step explanation:
The speaker in "failing and flying" does not believe that a failed relationship is an indication of a failure in life. The poem actually suggests that every ending, such as the end of a relationship, should not be seen strictly as a failure but rather as a part of one's journey. The poem, by Jack Gilbert, revolves around the idea that the act of loving itself is an achievement and life is about the experiences, not just the successes or failures.
In the poem, the speaker reflects on the myth of Icarus and uses it as a metaphor. The focus isn't on the fact that Icarus's flight ended when he fell to the sea, but rather on the 'wonder' of his flight. This perspective is a powerful message of the poem that even though the relationship is over, it was still glorious and taught valuable lessons. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is False.