Thank you so much, Rolph, for your very careful consideration and thoughtful analysis of the poem. It's very gracious of you and your kind words mean a lot! 😊

Comment is about Quixote. (blog)

Original item by Holden Moncrieff

I remember when computerisation was beginning in the retail world and I was fundamentally involved with it. Whilst trying to explain it to my interested father I remember thinking that he didn't understand a word I was saying. These days I am sure my sons (and daughters) think the same way!!

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Thanks for the comments, Graham, Uilleam and Rolph, and for the Likes, Manish, Helene, Red Brick, Marla, Holden, K Lynn, Branwell, and Naomi. The world of apps and QR codes is more or less beyond me, yet without that knowledge it's becoming increasingly difficult to survive. You have to jump through many online hoops to set up online banking, or indeed, most things online. We are beseiged by long articles of bland rubbish on social media, all obviously composed via AI. And now Microsoft is offering to help us write! Yes, Uilleam, for those of us of a certain age, with anxiety adding to the mix, I fear we're in the soup!

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/jan/18/uk-to-introduce-digital-drivers-licenses-to-transform-public-services

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Poignant expression of grief, Sophie.

Comment is about The Unwanted Guest (blog)

Original item by Sophie Chandler

Larisa, There is a discussion under How To Write Poetry called Early Works. I would love for you to join in. Marla

Comment is about Larisa Rzhepishevska (poet profile)

Original item by Larisa Rzhepishevska

A wild poem, a challenge to decipher. Fun! I like it. Who did the art work?

Comment is about Qwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnm [The World As I See It] (blog)

Original item by Uilleam Ó Ceallaigh

Thanks all for kind comments. Yes, this poem was born of the sorrow so many of us feel when we are helpless to help our suffering loved ones who don't accept help, or the help they receive doesn't work or last. My heart & mind get tired of trying to figure it out...gotta let it go....(writing poems helps me!) Marla & Uilleam you are so sweet to think of my accent marks (& everyone else on WOL who inputs them). My long deceased French-Canadian (Québecois) dad would so appreciate this! Truth be told, adult-me (living in California, USA) mostly goes by Helene for ease of communication. (I was born in Québec but grew up in Calif.; childhood-me dutifully used Hélène as my parents named me until I got my first post-college job). So no worries Marla; Helene is me too! (On my cell phone when I type, I just hold down the "e" key & up pops both "é" & "è.")

Comment is about And That's Okay (blog)

Original item by Hélène

Thank you, John! ^-^

Comment is about You Hold My Hand (blog)

Original item by purplemoon

Dear Greg,
I couldn’t agree more with your sentiments in "Alphabet, oops!"—I, too, am firmly in the "analogue, not digital" camp. Like you, I feel increasingly aware of how quickly technology is shifting and how it often feels like those of us who didn’t grow up as "digital natives" are being left behind. The transition to a world of AI and digital tools does seem to erase something essential, and it’s hard not to feel like we’re being phased out. Your observations on the inefficiencies and the dissonance with technology really resonated with me. I'm with you on this!
Best regards,
Rolph

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Dear Holden,
The "windswept quester" and "stuttering resolve" evoke a deep sense of uncertainty, while the "renewal of will" speaks to the power of inner transformation. I love how you use the "curious carnival" to symbolise life’s unpredictability and the swan's sigh before it sings, which adds a perfect touch of introspection. It’s a beautifully layered piece that resonates with the complexity of seeking meaning and wonderfully captures the internal journey of self-discovery and the tension between doubt and determination.
Best regards,
Rolph

Comment is about Quixote. (blog)

Original item by Holden Moncrieff

Dear RBK,
I really loved the way you connected computer key functions with real-life emotional experiences in "CTRL + ALT + DEL." It’s such a clever and powerful metaphor—the idea of trying to "delete" or "reset" our pain, much like we would with a computer glitch. The poem beautifully captures how, despite our efforts to control or erase emotional wounds, they often linger and reopen. It’s a fresh and insightful take on the complexity of healing.

Best,
Rolph

Comment is about CTRL + ALT + DLT (blog)

Original item by Red Brick Keshner

Two soops!

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

I’d have to disagree with you, Rolph, on “misunderstanding” humour.
Last year, only a few days after they had been strutting around on a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph, (ostensibly to honour the war dead) two failed former UK Prime Ministers, in their capacity as “guests of honour”, were laughing at a so-called comedian, singing in a private members’ club:
“We’re all racist now”.....“We’ve lost our way, long past our best. So I suggest maybe we should have let the Nazis win”......“They wouldn’t have stood for the state that we’re now in. The roads would be fine, the trains on time, we’d all have second language.”

That humour was fully understood, and it was an accurate portrayal of what a moral cesspit political life in the UK has become.

Comment is about Taking the Mic (blog)

Original item by Uilleam Ó Ceallaigh

Thank you very much for such an eloquent comment, David. It means a lot to me.😊

Comment is about Pang of Dread (blog)

Original item by Manish

I shall hold on to the happy memories we have made with Earth&Humanity.

Comment is about THE BLACK SHADOW (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

No names, no pack-drill...oh yes!

Comment is about TOP 10 ODIOUS BASTARDS (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Thanks Hélène.
It’s horrible to see someone suffering, especially from something like alcohol addiction. Within the span of two years I've seen an aquaintance, a lovely happy person turn into a helpless wreck: thank goodness she's now accepted professional help and appears to be happier.

Marla Joy; about accents, this can be confusing, and it depends what design of keyboard you have, but on my laptop keyboard:
1. to write acute accent é:
whilst pressing CTRL, type apostrophe, release CTRL then type letter e

2. to write grave accent è:
to the left of number 1, there’s a key with three symbols, one of which is the grave accent `.
Whilst pressing CTRL, press that key, release CTRL, then type the letter e
I hope I’ve got that correct, and that it’s of use to you.

Comment is about And That's Okay (blog)

Original item by Hélène

Thankyou Uilleam. A peek at what it might have contained would have revealed one or two odious bastards from the top table of American politics. (You get the idea).

Comment is about TOP 10 ODIOUS BASTARDS (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Many thanks Rolph for your comprehensive and detailed analysis of my poem. You have an acute insight. 🙂
Thank you Uilleam for your feedback. 🙂
Thanks for likes: Yanma Hidayah, Naomi, RudyardK & John C. 👍

Comment is about Ignore Me (blog)

Original item by Tom Doolan

Thank you, Lola.
Yesterday's winter sun was most welcome, but being low in the sky it makes driving a nightmare...especially if reflected off a wet road!

Comment is about I THINK THE SUN LIKES ME (blog)

Original item by Lola Omotoso

In the course of writing two lines, I've been rudely patronised and insulted.
I've got one thing to say to effing COPILOT: .....................OFF!
Sorry, that's two.

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Sadly, I’ve not had the opportunity to read your poem, John, therefore I’m unable to speak in your defence.

I can only suggest that maybe it was not your lack of literary prowess which was actually the problem, rather, the / an opinion / message contained in your post?

May I suggest that the WOL membership be given the opportunity to read your contribution and to decide for themselves whether or not it constitutes poetry?

One last thing; for what it’s worth, here’s my list of TOP 10 INGLORIOUS BARSTEWARDS: ...........qwertyuiop,
(runners up)..................................................asdfghjkl;
(last but not least)......................................zxcvbnm,./
(but not necessarily in the right order!)
It's poetry, but it's in code.
😡

Comment is about TOP 10 ODIOUS BASTARDS (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

True John. With age comes the chance to learn from past mistakes, celebrate achievements, and adapt to changing circumstances.

Comment is about THE TORCH OF TIME (blog)

Original item by Naomi

I’m with you Greg. Pretty soon we won’t be able to believe anything we see as real! I think a good word for this state of make believe is to be ‘Trumped’ He’s not real either.

Comment is about Alphabet, oops! (blog)

Original item by Greg Freeman

“It will get cooler” - Trump’s considered response to the scientific case.
I don’t know where it will end but you’re right - we shan’t see it but our grandchildren might.

Comment is about Climate Emergency! (blog)

Original item by Stephen Gospage

I loved this, Trevor. You got me googling before I saw your footnote. A wonderful picture of simple honest labour.

Comment is about Turf Day (blog)

Original item by Trevor Alexander

“And the war will be the last” - let’s hope so Larisa. Stay safe.

Comment is about God Сreated A Man For Happiness (blog)

Original item by Larisa Rzhepishevska

Wonderful simplicity, Purplemoon.

Comment is about You Hold My Hand (blog)

Original item by purplemoon

I am suspicious of all tomes of Certainty, Steve.

Comment is about The Wife of God (blog)

Original item by Steve White

“Them As lives longest learns most” as they say here.

Comment is about THE TORCH OF TIME (blog)

Original item by Naomi

“Cathedral hour” - wonderful.

Comment is about new day (blog)

Original item by Red Brick Keshner

I have withdrawn this piece on the advice of the moderator that it was not poetry.
I dispute that.
Not only did it end on a rhyming couplet in iambic tetrameter but the very title “Odious Bastards” is pure poetry. it couples two words, a dactyl and a. Spondee in succinct and evocative rhythm.
Readers are invited to “go a penny blind” and make their own suggestions as to who should be on the list.

Comment is about TOP 10 ODIOUS BASTARDS (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

my favorite one so far.

Comment is about Leaving Room for Errors (blog)

Original item by Mike McPeek

Helene ( I can't seem to get the accent marks right)
This is a deeper, more somber poem and I like it very much.
Marla

Comment is about And That's Okay (blog)

Original item by Hélène

Not me, Telboy. I'm more than happy to have voted Labour.

Comment is about A SONG OF PATRIOTIC PREJUDICE (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

John

Similarly those who voted Labour in six months ago are keeping a low profile. No-one wants to be associated with a lacklustre performance.

Comment is about A SONG OF PATRIOTIC PREJUDICE (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

You are quite right, Telboy. What I have noticed though is that despite 52% voting to Leave, it's hard to find anyone now who owns up to it. It's an embarrassing thing is Gullibility.

Comment is about A SONG OF PATRIOTIC PREJUDICE (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

If only those flipping snowflakes who complained like hell about the result could have been bothered to drag themselves down to the polling station we might have had a different sort of democracy. But nevertheless we got democracy.

Comment is about A SONG OF PATRIOTIC PREJUDICE (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Tom,
Your poem is raw and powerful, brimming with defiance and vulnerability. The repeated refrain of “Ignore me” feels like a battle cry—a mix of pain, frustration, and determination. It captures the paradox of wanting to be left alone but also desperately wanting to be seen, understood, and acknowledged.
I was struck by the imagery of “tears of pouring rain” and roaming a “forbidden planet”—it paints such a vivid picture of isolation and inner struggle. Yet, through all the anguish, there’s a fierce sense of resilience: “I will get my shit together” and “I will reach my goal.” It’s like a fire that refuses to be extinguished, no matter how strong the storm.
Your closing lines, especially “You will miss me when I am gone,” hit hard, serving as both a warning and a poignant reminder of the human need to be valued before it’s too late. This is a bold, heartfelt piece that leaves a lasting impression.
Great job!

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about Ignore Me (blog)

Original item by Tom Doolan

Red Brick Keshner,
Your poem is brief yet deeply insightful. The invocation of kintsugi struck me immediately. It’s such a beautiful philosophy—embracing the brokenness in life and turning it into something more meaningful, even more beautiful. I love how you’ve applied this to the “night’s cathedral hour.” The idea that the stillness and reflection of night can act as a sacred space for healing and repair is incredibly moving. It reminds me that even in our darkest, quietest moments, there’s an opportunity for transformation.
And then, the simplicity and hope in “new life starts at dawn” ties it all together perfectly. It feels like a reassurance that after the night’s introspection and repair, we are ready to face the day—flaws and all—stronger, wiser, and more whole because of what we’ve endured.
Your poem speaks to the beauty of life’s imperfections and the power of renewal, and it’s such a comforting reminder to carry with me. Thank you for sharing this. I'm very moved.
Best,
Rolph

Comment is about new day (blog)

Original item by Red Brick Keshner

GRD,
Your poem is profound and thought-provoking, weaving the journey of life into the metaphor of a queue. The repetition of waiting, moving, and ultimately reaching an end captures the bittersweet passage of time so vividly. I love how you explore the emotions—hope, despair, connection, and loss—that arise along the way, creating a sense of shared humanity in this universal experience.
The way you balance philosophical depth with tangible imagery, like helping a neighbour or memories fading like vapours, is incredibly moving.
The closing lines leave a lasting impression, reminding us of the lessons and transient beauty found even as we approach the inevitable.

A stunning piece—thank you for sharing it.

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about A queue (blog)

Original item by GRD

Mike,

Your poem is beautifully tender and introspective. The quiet moments you describe—the unspoken reconciliation through coffee, the shared space in the backyard, and the birds in the fountain—feel so real and poignant. It’s a gentle reminder of how forgiveness often resides in small gestures and shared silences. I love how the imagery conveys so much emotion without needing to say it outright.

A lovely, heartfelt piece.

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about Leaving Room for Errors (blog)

Original item by Mike McPeek

Flyntland,

Your today's poem is hauntingly poignant. It captures the corrosive power of anger, hatred, and intolerance with striking clarity. The imagery of unbridled rage as an addiction and hatred as a poison that slowly kills feels so true and visceral. I especially felt the weight of the closing lines—the emptiness left behind after all those destructive emotions are swallowed. It’s a powerful reminder of the need for empathy and connection before it’s too late.
Beautifully written.

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about YESTERDAYS ILLS (blog)

Original item by Flyntland

Hélène,
Your poem really strikes a chord with me. I also know someone who’s addicted to alcohol AND suffers from MS, and it’s incredibly tough. He rejects every offer of help, trampling them underfoot, and it’s hard to feel any sympathy when help is constantly rejected and cancelled out. It’s so frustrating. How do you deal with it sensibly when someone in such a difficult situation simply doesn’t want to be the center of attention or accept help? Your words on patience and love really hit home—though it’s hard, I think they’re all we can try to hold on to in these circumstances.

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about And That's Okay (blog)

Original item by Hélène

Flyntland,

Thank you for your insightful response. I understand the dread you feel—it’s hard to ignore the miserable actions Trump has advocated for, like with the death penalty. My optimism in the poem isn’t meant to erase that fear, but to hold onto some hope, despite the reality of his looming return to power. Your thoughts really made me reflect more deeply on the complexities of what I’m trying to express.

Take care,
Rolph

Comment is about Puppets of Greed (blog)

Original item by Rolph David

I love how your reflection led to 'Does death sometimes arrive as a gift?' after "Are miracles possible?". It is a profound reflection, and it takes great wisdom to reach that. Thank you, Hélène, for sharing such a deep reflection.

Comment is about And That's Okay (blog)

Original item by Hélène

Thank you, Stephen, for your perceptive and encouraging words about my poem. I'm glad the optimistic ending resonated with you, though I understand your worries about the broader political landscape. The shift within the Republican Party, as you describe it, is indeed very much concerning, and creatures (!) like J.D. Vance only amplify those anxieties for the future. However, as you rightly point out, staying positive and hopeful is crucial—poetry can be a small but powerful way to shine a light on optimism, even amid uncertainty and fear. Let's hope that the collective will for something better prevails. To a better world after all the Trumps, Putins, Xis...

Comment is about Puppets of Greed (blog)

Original item by Rolph David

Thank you, Uilleam, for your thoughtful critique. I appreciate your perspective on the idea of unseen puppeteers and the possibility of a broader manipulation at play. My intention with the image of Trump as a puppet-master was to explore one layer of influence and power dynamics, but you raise an important point about the complexity of control and the hidden forces that may lie beyond the obvious. The fear of a cynical ceasefire being a fleeting ploy is certainly a valid concern, and I share your hope that this view proves to be wrong. Poetry often captures fragments of the truth, and your reflection reminds me how multifaceted that truth can be.

Comment is about Puppets of Greed (blog)

Original item by Rolph David

Flyntland, Stephen, and Uilleam - Thank you three for your kind words!
Cheerio,
Rolph

Comment is about Puppets of Greed (blog)

Original item by Rolph David

Hi Uilleam,
Yes, humour is a wonderful thing, as long as one is not misunderstood on either side. Then it can become unpleasant. Thanks for the song link. Very nice recording. After the seventh Green Grow the Rushes - O I thought...oh dear, if this goes to the 500th now, I don't just have an earworm problem. It reminds me of the 12 days of Christmas. Very nice! Thanks for letting me get to know it. I didn't know it until today.

Comment is about Taking the Mic (blog)

Original item by Uilleam Ó Ceallaigh