I read Tim’s comment first. I’m on quite a steep learning curve. Not all cathartic verse is maudlin stink. Specially if you have met the author. Brave indeed and perhaps useful to others in the same boat, or caravan.
I like the language and how the story develops. The subject is handled unobtrusively and reflects those times. How often do we mention periods to explain things that people do. People, not the calendar.
This is one of my favourite poems. Not simply because it's a very brave poem to write, but when read without the introduction and explanation it starts sort-of-normal but gradually becomes darker so you think "Is this really going there" and then you find out it is. Bravo, Mike.
Cheers Tim, it’s nice to read it to an audience and take them by surprise. But on this occasion no thought I’d add the backstory, so that my descendants have the chance to work out why I was such a weirdo. 😂
I wasn't sure what to say after reading this It left me feeling emotional on your behalf and felt as though id want to to rush into the rescue [ I always get like this when someone is in need of help ] I was so pleased to read you have a wonderful wife and family and friends . The only good thing I think when bad things have happened to me is that you appreciate the good things around you and the love you receive from the people who matter
The poem its self is really powerful, and I think you very courageous to share it
I read Tim’s comment first. I’m on quite a steep learning curve. Not all cathartic verse is maudlin stink. Specially if you have met the author. Brave indeed and perhaps useful to others in the same boat, or caravan.
I like the language and how the story develops. The subject is handled unobtrusively and reflects those times. How often do we mention periods to explain things that people do. People, not the calendar.
Quite haunting and not what I was expecting.
This is one of my favourite poems. Not simply because it's a very brave poem to write, but when read without the introduction and explanation it starts sort-of-normal but gradually becomes darker so you think "Is this really going there" and then you find out it is. Bravo, Mike.
Cheers Tim, it’s nice to read it to an audience and take them by surprise. But on this occasion no thought I’d add the backstory, so that my descendants have the chance to work out why I was such a weirdo. 😂
I wasn't sure what to say after reading this It left me feeling emotional on your behalf and felt as though id want to to rush into the rescue [ I always get like this when someone is in need of help ] I was so pleased to read you have a wonderful wife and family and friends . The only good thing I think when bad things have happened to me is that you appreciate the good things around you and the love you receive from the people who matter
The poem its self is really powerful, and I think you very courageous to share it