Becky, I didn't notice this when it made it's rounds in the blogs, but I'm reading it aloud repeatedly, now, and dig the sound.

The whole bit has a great (dare I say) post-punk feel...effin' lovely...

elP

Comment is about 'The Concrete Road' by Becky Sowray is Write Out Loud Poem of the Week (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Hey, David,

I would rather have upset a particular few other than you. Few? Well, they are far more than they should be--those who are a little too comfortable in their skin with delusions of shelter from all the shit storms they start, I mean.

My apologies before I go any further. You probably have no idea what goes through my mind and I don't dare tell.

Anyhow, your comment has me thinking. It's something that comes to mind quite often, in fact. Somehow, I don't believe that there's a way back after marginalization. I mean, we might be able to flirt with the line a bit. But, in many ways, might always be relegated to the other side.

I hope I'm making some kind of sense, here. There's some territory into which I don't venture often because of the emotion it stirs. But, you seem quite intelligent enough to understand, anyhow.

I hope you are well, David. Take good care and I hope that you don't encounter too many volatile situations as you travel through this world.

elP xx

ps
..not really trying to be funny, but those "potentially hazardous to your health" warnings are most likely on file and backed up to infinity.

https://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/fire-1973.html

--we can never return to such simple times...

Comment is about unknown soldier (half-life) (blog)

Original item by nunya

I love how this all merges together and then punches you in the throat,I like poetry that makes me pay attention and this does.

Comment is about char (blog)

Original item by Stuart Buck

The death of a pepper is a sacrifice that brings pleasure, the death of people a simple inescapable fact , and you blend the detail bewitchingly with this song, like the song of the earth! I try to get close Stu but you're too clever for me.

Ray

Comment is about char (blog)

Original item by Stuart Buck

Everyday we do simple things (like as you say roasting a pepper) that some people cannot do because of some horrid circumstance. I love your comparison between wrinkly fingers and the wrumpled skin of the roasted pepper, such a great image.

Comment is about char (blog)

Original item by Stuart Buck

Thanks Kevin. It feels a responsibility I agree to take on such emotive subject matter, but I felt I had to use that idea!

Cheers David. We're on a similar level obviously and nice to get your take on this one.

Ray

Comment is about REACH FOR THE SKY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

Glad you liked this one P & S . Those were the days of the open road. Happy biking!

Ray

Comment is about YOU SAY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

I am a retired coffee drinker myself, It makes me ever so nervous!!!

Comment is about Ride the Bean (blog)

Original item by Michaela Sheldon

The contents of the Bible - like other religious works -
are open to individual or collective interpretation as to meaning -
as has been witnessed for good and bad down the centuries. And that can apply when Christianity is
associated with socialism - defined in my dictionary as
"political and economic theory of social organisation and
control of commercial activities, policy or practice."
Any sweeping use of the word "poor" today is likely
to mislead since the contemporary condition seems far
removed from its meaning and obvious evidence of the
past. I've asked politicians for their interpretation of the
word today and have yet to receive an answer of any
sort. Hence the suspicion that it is being used for
a purpose other than its contemporary reality which
contrasts sharply with the emaciation and no shoes
/no hope of other days. That said, I'm all for the rich
paying more in tax or charity and would put the well-heeled names of show-biz and sport alongside
the corporate candidates for that purpose. But there is
a world beyond our shores and socialism seems the
least appealing of political systems for many who see
the concept to be far removed from the reality they
witness. My own memory - visiting Cold War Russia
(The USSR or The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics")
which had traffic lanes set aside for sole use of the
limos of the Politburo...Orwell's "some more equal than
others." Let us keep aiming for the best while striving
to improve the worst in the world in which we find ourselves.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Poetry doing something good: inspiring people, helping the less fortunate, bringing comfort. Well done, Tony, for having the right words at the necessary time.

Comment is about Tony Walsh's Manchester poem 'This is The Place' is released as a single (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

delicious - and that's from a non-coffee drinker - the highs and lows of surfing the caffeine wave - an interesting take on an oft written about theme. Eye-catching title too.

Col.

Comment is about Ride the Bean (blog)

Original item by Michaela Sheldon

? great concept and love the flow

Comment is about Sin (blog)

Original item by Tommy Carroll

Dear Anna, I'm so pleased you were urged to comment in such a positive way, thankyou very much.

Dear cynthia, thankyou for your comments. The infinity of things worse than death don't need me to start listing them,
I can't believe you mean there's 'nothing worse than death'.

A religious whiff is unavoidable in this poem, our "Adam" could be he of fig-leaf fame. If so (it is just one angle, Adam is also my own name, it could well be a more personal confession. In fact it is well known that where we have two interpretations of a poem, they are probably both pertinent, we must take both roads at once) I imagine this episode before the advent of apple-keen Eve, seeing Adam as an everyman, and exploring his humanity as such, even while he is the only man.

He starts in a state of perfect isolation and not very happy about it but even here he can find a believable positive attitude- it's not so bad. ?

He is then delighted finding something (rather than nothing), although it is quite inanimate, he appreciates it a great deal and his mood is certainly lifted. ?

The idea at least of a living creature, a companion, raises his spirits to a high pitch and at this point in his journey through the poem I would call him happy, despite the uncertain position. ?

His fellow humans he considered next, though none are present. His 'family' we might say, with the overwhelming love that entails. His concern for them, generous and altruistic I like to think, is the culmination of his Humanity which has been developing throughout the story. ?

Comment is about Adam's Humanity (blog)

Original item by Adam Whitworth

By the way, thanks for reading, Rich and Colin.

elP x

Comment is about unknown soldier (half-life) (blog)

Original item by nunya

Hey, Ray..what's up?

Thanks for commenting. I certainly don't feel that this piece is my best as far as level of creativity goes, but I couldn't refrain from expressing something of how I feel. Truthfully, I get too disgusted to talk about it rationally.

However, if you want a peek at part of the thought process behind this, watch some clips on Youtube about Major General Smedley Butler. There are too many good ones to mention. But, to preface, he was an extraordinary character who foiled a fascist plot against FDR that was cooked up by huge corporate interests right here in the US. His story is unforgettable and he makes some quite intelligent commentary on the nature of war and how soldiers are abused and misused.

Take care, Ray,

elP

ps
..or, if you're interested, take a watch at Eisenhower's departure speech from the Presidency--an absolutely chilling warning about the times we inhabit.

Comment is about unknown soldier (half-life) (blog)

Original item by nunya

Ray,excuse our arse end non-linguistical way of saying that this poem is well 'ard.

turrar! P&S...sod the kisses though! ;0)

ps-sorry to hear about yer two wheeler getting half inched-MF's!

Comment is about YOU SAY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

I don't know MC, "seriousness of purpose with both wit and a compelling sense of humanity" sounds good enough for me. There's always room for humour, I think: though it would have to be more than funny to be marked above everything else. From the reports above Denise Riley certainly sounds like a deserving winner: should we read the work??

Comment is about Denise Riley wins £5,000 Roehampton Poetry Centre prize (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Excellent comparison Mark. It is by our colloquialisms we are most easily identified - and marked!

Comment is about YOU SAY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

the old story Wendy.Will it ever change? Thank you.Jemima.

Comment is about The Law Of This Land (blog)

Original item by Wendy Higson

Wendy,don't concern yourself about being a novice.We all have to start somewhere.

And you are doing brilliantly!
So keep calm and have a Tetley!

P&S xx

Comment is about Wendy Higson (poet profile)

Original item by Wendy Higson

Well read too, by the way. Another thing I couldn't do.

Comment is about REACH FOR THE SKY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

I wouldn't have known what it was about without the audio, but it makes perfect sense. I could never even attempt to write anything topical for fear of trivialising it, but this is a fitting tribute. I like the idea of comparing a tower block to a bee hive.
Cheers Kevin

Comment is about REACH FOR THE SKY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

I well recall Nigel Mansell winning Sports Personality of the Year in 1986 for finishing second in the Driver's Championship. We are easily pleased.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

A fascinating variety of views about equality and the
state of the human condition that affects its existence -
or lack of it. As for Christianity getting involved - didn't
Christ himself observe that "the poor are always with us"
when seeking recognition of/support for his own situation from the demands of his followers during his brief stay?
The composite human condition is always vying with its
individual aspirations as history shows and we'd need to
start over from scratch to have any realistic chance of changing that blueprint.
As for any high-minded pious stance about ideals, I
doubt that a resort to vulgar abuse would be a persuasive factor in altering anything. The phrase
"easier said than done" comes to mind. Let us, instead, each in his or her own way try to contribute
to making this a better world by
action or example and go on our way knowing we made it just that
bit better for others.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Good luck to the author on her good fortune.
But can someone in judging circles wherever let us know
the last time a collection of humorous poems got rewarded.
Just curious!

Comment is about Denise Riley wins £5,000 Roehampton Poetry Centre prize (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Fun - with the added essence of truth in the contrasts,
taking me back happily to "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off".

Comment is about YOU SAY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

Hi Ray - I think this was a reaction over the modern
tendency to seek those upon whom "guilt" can be
dumped without the proper considered patience that
the process of enquiry and resulting evidence requires.
The line "Rush To Judgement" (from a famous book)
comes to mind...something to be avoided if logic and
reason (sanity?!) are to prevail.

Comment is about THE BLAME GAME (blog)

Original item by M.C. Newberry

You can find more of my poems on line including performance videos simply by searching on my name DAVID SUBACCHI.

Comment is about BASS GUITAR (blog)

Original item by David Subacchi

https://inews.co.uk/essentials/jeremy-corbyn-right-poetry-can-change-world/

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Hi Mark. In view of the state of our expectations in life being constantly seemingly short changed, your few lines do have a place - I think to some they will be like a road barrier that just can't be driven through without showing rites of passage.

Ray

Comment is about THE BLAME GAME (blog)

Original item by M.C. Newberry

This resonates with the lonely footfall and the trudging of time . It has a sort of religious feel, especially with the desert and its wilderness. I think the soldier doesn't want pity just recognition and that comes across.
Powerful stuff elP.

Ray

Comment is about unknown soldier (half-life) (blog)

Original item by nunya

Why did you ask the question if you're simply going to ignore the response?

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

You are not easy to read, but full of rewards when one makes the effort. You don't cater to lazy thinkers; and that is excellent. You have more courage than I do; I'm always straddling the middle line.

Comment is about Towering Factory Gates (blog)

Original item by Adam Whitworth

Very interesting, Adam. A hard subject to try and capture, and so intensely personal to the individual. Kudos to you. The final 'message' is very uplifting to the human condition.

I did smile at the use of 'kitten'. There is a science about the 'baby' thing of all animals - big eyes being predominant, if I remember correctly. And utter helplessness. But kittens conquer us totally. Maybe it's the fluffy fur as well, the feel of them and the size, fitting within our human palm. Same criteria should apply to many other animals, but it doesn't, usually.

'my charming good-bye' is a poetic gem. The word 'charm' is one of the loveliest in the English language, so full of extended meaning, so often used sluggishly.

What do you consider to be 'worse' than 'death'? That gave me pause before I even read on.

Comment is about Adam's Humanity (blog)

Original item by Adam Whitworth

As I said in my last post "best leave it there for me". I'm off back to my narrow life experiences and counting my money.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

I have been <a href="http://www.essaysolution.co.uk/write-my-essay">i need an essay</a> following your blog for some time now and have found it quite informative and also interesting and you have very nice way of expressing the article.Looking forward to another article.

Comment is about Reader at Marsden Write Out Loud 18th January 2017 (photo)

Original item by Marsden Write Out Loud

Kealan, how wonderful to have you back! I've not been too much on line lately. I'll try to catch up on your work.

Comment is about Kealan Coady (poet profile)

Original item by Kealan Coady

I have been <a href="http://www.essaysolution.co.uk/write-my-essay">i need an essay</a> following your blog for some time now and have found it quite informative and also interesting and you have very nice way of expressing the article.Looking forward to another article.

Comment is about Alan Prout, Marsden Write Out Loud 18th January 2017 (photo)

Original item by Marsden Write Out Loud

Graham – without typing out an epic reply, I will summarise it for you. What we mean by equality is true equality of opportunity. From each according to their ability, to each according to their needs. It’s an oldie but it’s a goodie.

That labour force you mentioned managing may well have responded very differently had they had a more equal education, wage, nutrition, housing, healthcare, recourse to support in all areas, human rights in general, the opportunities to develop in ways that are not limited to creating wealth for the few, less worries about financial concerns, including housing, hunger, the ability to keep sufficiently warm and clean.

Do you consider yourself a Christian, by the way? If so, you must be aware that Jesus was a socialist, that the New Testament is a socialist text in the main.

I would urge you to read the book btw, rather than base your opinions on your own narrow life experience. It might give you a broader understanding of the subject. Then again, given your emphasis on creating more wealth for yourself, it might not.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

equality is like organic farming - a preferred end point of reference to be aimed for. And although it might not in practise be achievable all of the time in every situation it should still be what we work towards continually as a society, together.

It seems the argument here is who would be better placed to forward that advance, fairly for all.

Status Quo voter mentality gives the green light to politicians to do as they wish - a situation that should never be encouraged imo.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

You are not alone. This is beautiful :)

Comment is about I wrote this in tears (blog)

Original item by Michaela Sheldon

I love this!!

Comment is about Adam's Humanity (blog)

Original item by Adam Whitworth

Good evening, Cynthia and Kealan,

I suppose the simplest way to describe an intranet is in describing what it is not--an extranet. That is, one only exists in a sort of negation of the other.

I'm not trying to be cute, here. I simply wanted to use networking concepts as analogous to principles of compartmentalization and damage control. For what reason, who can tell?

Thanks so much to the both of you for your reading and kind comments. And, also for your questions and prompts for explanation. I much enjoy them and will, by the way, be reading more on simulation theory.

elP

Comment is about watchdog (blog)

Original item by nunya

Love the repetitive parallelism listing in first few lines...... And the imagery of time passing by.... A journey.... Is very effective.... Esp in how u convey seasons passing... cos


I’ll be springing into summer’s warmth

whooping through autumnal days

there’ll be no kicking of heels

when I’m kicking up a snow storm

Comment is about How to approach a new year (blog)

Original item by Joy

Adrian-
No tethered wants } no restrained desires

nor garnished voice } no empty promises

but a stroke of intent } the first downward stroke of the voter's cross (vote) that indicates thier purposefullness (anger!)

another of choice. } the second stroke that completes thier selection. Tommy

Comment is about Ballot Cross (blog)

Original item by Tommy Carroll

It's funny David, but we seem to share that industriousness with insects that just keep going under all adversity. I don't personally like to believe you have failed, but doubts are the theme of the creative mind so often. As you say we should go on for endeavour and ever. We could look to Ranulph Fiennes and his ilk.

Ray

Comment is about AIMS (blog)

Original item by ray pool

You ain't seen nothing yet David. Thanks for enjoying - it's not rocket science.

Ray

Comment is about YOU SAY (blog)

Original item by ray pool

Hi Phillip Thankyou for you kind comments my poems are real life stories I have never read a book in my life never used other people's work or used their ideas my life has been very complicated so their is much more to come out in my poems keep smiling you have a lovely smile must be all those children love Wendy.

Comment is about Phillip Kelly (poet profile)

Original item by Phillip Kelly

Having been around witnessing life at all levels and in many
of its varieties I have yet to be convinced that there is
such a thing as "equality" in the human condition. How to
define it? Can it be defined in health or wealth? size or
lack of it? possessions or lack of them? advancement or
lack of it? rank or lack of it? social position or lack of it?
eminence or lack of it? creativity or lack of it? usefulness
or lack of it? The list is goes on and I propose that it defies
the simple/simplistic meaning inferred in various WOL posts.
The nearest in my own estimation is equality of opportunity,
from which so much else can emerge, plus the obvious "equality
before the law".
Even George Orwell recognised the impossibility of pinning
it down...with some "more equal than others".

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

By the time I've read the book Laura and its myriad statistics (and we all know what they can be made to say) I'll be a week older and no wiser.
I prefer to build my opinions on REAL life not someone else's stats.
So here's to the UK becoming more like Russia or N Korea. You'll be an awful lot more equal but bugger all better off!
Best leave it there for me, my blue pants are beginning to show.

Comment is about 'Ye are many - they are few!' Jeremy Corbyn quotes Shelley at Glastonbury (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman