Dear pallavitryingthings,
The way you juxtapose our trivial irritations with the cosmic scale of existence is powerful, highlighting how small and fleeting our individual concerns are in the grand scheme of things. The recurring theme of overthinking, overaspiring, and overrated self-importance speaks to a universal truth we often overlook. It’s a humbling reminder to step back and consider our place in a much bigger world.
Great job!
Cheerio,
Rolph
Comment is about Egocentricity (blog)
Original item by pallavitryingthings
Dear Holden,
Your poem "(Mis)aligned..." creates a powerful image of feeling out of sync with the world around you. The tension between clinging to past values and the need to find purpose in a rapidly changing world is palpable. I love the contrast you draw between innocence and the more "counterfeit" aspects of modern life. The yearning for alignment—both personally and within society—is something that many can relate to, especially in times of uncertainty. The imagery and choice of words pull the reader into a reflective, almost disorienting space, which makes the poem feel deeply introspective.
I love it. Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about (Mis)aligned... (blog)
Original item by Holden Moncrieff
Dear Flyntland,
The way you bring her (the wild country crow) to life with such personality—fearless, confident, and cunning—is truly engaging. I love how you highlight the mutual understanding and respect between you two, framed by the subtle exchange of food and protection. The communication between you and Corra, though unconventional, feels incredibly authentic. Your portrayal of her intelligence and independence, along with the tenderness you offer in return, makes this poem both charming and evocative.
Thank you for it!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
Dear Stephen,
The way you balance the possibility of forgiveness with the necessity of remembering is poignant and reflective. You capture the deep scars of conflict—emotional, physical, and societal—and the weight that history carries. I especially appreciate how you highlight that true healing cannot come without acknowledging the past, no matter how painful. It’s a sobering and necessary reflection on the importance of memory and the costs of forgetting.
Fantastic words!
Cheerio,
Rolph
Comment is about Forgive, Not Forget (blog)
Original item by Stephen Gospage
Hi Stuart,
The questions you raise about pleasure, satisfaction, and the pursuit of happiness resonate deeply. I particularly appreciate how you challenge the notion that happiness comes from wealth or possessions, instead pointing to the value of living modestly and embracing the unknown. It’s a refreshing reminder that true fulfillment may come not from what we have, but from how we live and the freedom we find in simplicity.
Great job!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about The Life We Should Lead. (blog)
Original item by Stuart Vanner
Dear Flyntland,
Your comment about Naomi's poem really struck a chord with me, especially in light of how much women were once made responsible for, both within their homes and in society. Beyond what you mentioned, women were often blamed for a whole host of societal issues—like the reputation of their families, the moral conduct of their communities, and even economic stability. If a child went astray or a family faced hardship, the woman’s role was always scrutinised. It’s heartbreaking to think about how women were held accountable for things beyond their control, like a husband's infidelity or the actions of others in the family. And even worse, when women themselves were victims of sexual violence, they were often blamed.
Thankfully, these times have hopefully become a little better, and there has been some progress in how we view women’s roles. Though not perfect, the shift in attitudes over time brings hope that we’re moving towards a more equal and just society. Naomi’s poem is a reflection of that struggle, and your reflection on it adds another important layer to the conversation.
Take care,
regards,
Rolph
Comment is about THE CRACK IN THE SHELL (blog)
Original item by Naomi
Dear Naomi,
You’ve captured so powerfully the struggle of caring for someone else while silencing your own emotions to protect them. The way you describe walking on eggshells and building walls to shield your true feelings is so vivid—it made me feel the emotional weight of that experience. The tenderness and burden of constantly tending to someone else’s moods, only to feel your own heart wither in silence, is devastating. I can feel the ache behind the words, and your poem paints a picture of the exhaustion that comes with losing yourself in someone else’s needs.
Great job!
Take care,
Rolph
Comment is about THE CRACK IN THE SHELL (blog)
Original item by Naomi
Dear David,
The way you explore how identities and symbols can be manipulated to conceal darker truths is both chilling and thought-provoking. The imagery you use, especially the comparison of a cross to a Hakenkreuz (swastika), powerfully illustrates the corruption of what was once pure. The poem feels like a warning about the danger of surface-level respectability hiding corruption beneath. For me it's a haunting and timely reflection on the lies we build upon, and their inevitable consequences.
Great! 😊
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about One thing becomes another (blog)
Original item by David RL Moore
Hi Ralph,
What a great poetic reflection on love, loss, and the quiet joy and pain of revisiting past relationships.
Its emotional depth and rich, nostalgic imagery make it a compelling exploration of the human experience across time.
Thanks for sharing!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about Return to Waterloo (edited) (blog)
Original item by Ralph Dartford
Hello Uilleam,
Thank you for your comment.
Have a nice weekend.
Take care,
regards,
Rolph
Comment is about The World Poisoner (blog)
Original item by Rolph David
Dear Rick,
The way you juxtapose contrasting traits and moods within a single persona paints a vivid picture of the internal conflicts and contradictions we all carry. The repetition of “innumerable characteristics” emphasises just how multifaceted we are, reminding us that identity is never simple or static. It’s a powerful reflection on the fluid, unpredictable nature of who we are.
Great job!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about Split Personalities (blog)
Original item by Rick Varden
Dear John,
What a thought-provoking piece that critiques the tension between democracy and mediocrity. Your use of Ovid’s quote highlights a deep disillusionment with the modern world’s focus on greed and superficiality, while contrasting it with lofty ideals of liberty and freedom. The poem’s biting tone and vivid imagery make it clear that you see through the hollow promises of contemporary society, urging a reflection on what true freedom means.
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about A VIEW of the NEW 1922 - 2022 (blog)
Original item by John E Marks
Dear Uilleam,
Your Haiku for 2025 [No. 9. Testicles] reads more like a senryu than a traditional haiku. While haiku typically focus on nature and seasonal imagery, senryu explore human nature, often with satire or dark humour—exactly what your poem does so effectively. The sharp critique of media figures and Islamophobia, combined with the blunt humour of Talking Testicles, makes this a biting and timely commentary rather than a meditative reflection on nature.
A bold and thought-provoking piece! I love it.
Take care and no offence!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about Haiku for 2025 [No. 9. Testicles] (blog)
Original item by Uilleam Ó Ceallaigh
Dear Hélène,
Your Song for Democracy is powerful and deeply moving. You beautifully capture courage, unity, and the strength of compassion. I love how you remind us that beneath fear and hate, we all seek kindness and connection. Thank you for sharing your inspiring voice!
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about Song for Democracy, in 2 parts (blog)
Original item by Hélène
A simply beautiful poem, Eduardo. Can't wait to see the movie, Graham. Check out this video of Bob & Joan (Bob choosing to sing melodically instead of gravelly. I like both versions of his voice).
https://youtu.be/YVWouDqZp0E?feature=shared
And here's a 2022 interview w/ Dylan. What a wizard with words; free flowing poetry.
https://www.reddit.com/r/bobdylan/comments/zq1vox/new_dylan_interview_bob_dylan_on_musics_golden/?rdt=42601
Comment is about Bob Dylan (blog)
Original item by Eduardo
For reading and liking
My grateful thanks go to Tom - Stephen G and Aisha
also to Holden - Yanma and Naomi.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
A compelling poem, Rob. I read it twice to let the words sink in. Well done!
Comment is about Who Are You? (blog)
Original item by Rob J Mann
This is very original Helene! I think the message is "listen" G
Comment is about Song for Democracy, in 2 parts (blog)
Original item by Hélène
Anything Dylan related (Bob or Thomas) is up my street! If you haven’t seen the new film go!!
I like the subtle shift in this poem.
Comment is about Bob Dylan (blog)
Original item by Eduardo
Thanks Roplh,
I've been watching the Trump-Musk omnishambles unfold with increasing horror. 'Reform' it says, on the rocket.
We in the UK have our own 'Reform'; which is in fact, a business, posing as a political party; aiding and abetting the war-criminals and kleptocrats in our own government, currently destroying UK democracy and freedom of speech, by persecuting Jews and journalists who are opposed to genocide.
Comment is about The World Poisoner (blog)
Original item by Rolph David
Thankyou Graham,
Many thanks to those who have given likes.
David
Comment is about One thing becomes another (blog)
Original item by David RL Moore
Indeed, Graham. Three years of tragedy and sacrifice and so much comes to depend on this moron and his bunch of freeloading cronies.
And my thanks to everyone who liked this poem. Forgiveness will come, though not quite as quickly as the Pope seems to think it should.
Comment is about Forgive, Not Forget (blog)
Original item by Stephen Gospage
Yes, to the streets & to the courtrooms once again we go.
Comment is about We Rise (blog)
Original item by Hélène
Thanks for extra likes: Holden, Aisha & Annabelle 👍
Comment is about In Your Arms (blog)
Original item by Tom Doolan
So many good words in this!
Comment is about Return to Waterloo (edited) (blog)
Original item by Ralph Dartford
These words stood out
‘ they profess their own enlightenment with eyes as cold as stone’
Comment is about One thing becomes another (blog)
Original item by David RL Moore
Thanks so much...2 Grandchildren now by Rachel's older sister (both adorable!!) I am very lucky!
Comment is about 'Baby Bear' (blog)
Original item by Mike Bartram
Welcome back! Ukraine faces another serious threat now the Trumpster is around again
Comment is about Forgive, Not Forget (blog)
Original item by Stephen Gospage
Thank you for your kind words Flyntland. It means a lot to me that the poem spoke to you.
You're right. It's funny how those old ideas about women still stick around.
Even if nobody says them out loud anymore.
I appreciate you bringing that up.
Comment is about THE CRACK IN THE SHELL (blog)
Original item by Naomi
Fri 7th Feb 2025 06:34
With all due respect, H.,
I've not lost hope and
I'm not crawling into the cave of despair.
I'm fighting to make things better.
Comment is about We Rise (blog)
Original item by Hélène
Thankyou, Flyntland. And for your Likes, New Shoes and Stephen.
Comment is about MY MAN (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
A poem about everything, Hélène. Marvellous.
Comment is about We Rise (blog)
Original item by Hélène
This poem is so well written and it will touch a raw nerve in many who read it,
My faith school told us that "Women were born to suffer" It was also common knowledge that if a man was unfaithful to his wife it was her fault for not being interesting enough.
But that was a long time ago and attitudes have changed, (I hope)
Comment is about THE CRACK IN THE SHELL (blog)
Original item by Naomi
Naomi,
I wish that I could hit the like button ten times, plus more.
Marla
Comment is about THE CRACK IN THE SHELL (blog)
Original item by Naomi
Thanks for likes: Naomi, Yanma Hidayah, New Shoes & Marla Joy. 👍
Comment is about In Your Arms (blog)
Original item by Tom Doolan
"This is the nature of survival
this is the nature of regeneration"
Helene you have given me a much-needed jolt, I just see gloom everywhere and life is not like that - I just need to wait and see.
Thank you
Comment is about We Rise (blog)
Original item by Hélène
Hi again Flyntland,
that sounds Idyllic, I wish I had more space for animals and plants. I would love to have space for rescue and to create a wild area for birds and wildlife. I have a dog and that's about all I have room for.
I love animals so much I've even stopped eating them, as for plants...well we all need to eat something.
David.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
Maria and New Shoes thank you for reading and for your likes.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
Helene - Thank you for your kind comment - we get many a chuckle with our wildlife friends.
Early one morning my husband passed a magpie when he was on his way to the bathroom, it was only on his return journey that he realized that it should not have been there. We have no idea how long it had been in the house or how it got there.
I do love nature.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
Thank you David - I have planted many wildlife-friendly trees and shrubs on my little patch of Earth. I am in close touch with the varied creatures that have decided to live here.
Among them is a group of 3rd. or 4th. generation in the wild pheasants that visit us daily - one even comes in the house and calls us for food.
My world is a small one, but full of the wild creatures that I love.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
A gorgeous poem of nostalgia, RBK, digging deep into the mind and milieu of the poets of old (including quite a few of us here on WOL it would appear, although a quill pen I have not lately used).
Comment is about not to the swift (blog)
Original item by Red Brick Keshner
Lovely, well written Flyntland. I was right there with you and the bird, caught up in the imagery and sensations.
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
Thanks for your enquiery Hélène,
and to all those who gave likes, thank you.
David RL Moore
Comment is about Of sorrowful songs there is no fear (blog)
Original item by David RL Moore
Hi Flyntland,
an interesting observation on bird behaviour...
or an interesting analogy of the enemy of my enemy is my friend.
David RL Moore
Comment is about CORRA (blog)
Original item by Flyntland
The last stanza is wonderful - well penned!
Comment is about not to the swift (blog)
Original item by Red Brick Keshner
I love this one - a giggle seen through the eyes of a dog - the things that they do for us just to keep us happy.
Comment is about MY MAN (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
Thanks for extra likes: Red Brick Keshner, Hélène, Stephen G & Aisha. 👍
Comment is about Cancer Touched Me (blog)
Original item by Tom Doolan
Rolph David
Sat 8th Feb 2025 16:42
Hi Leonidas,
Your poem is deeply moving. The imagery of waking up to confront a world still asleep powerfully captures the struggle for change. I can feel the frustration of trying to awaken others while they remain oblivious. The journey from confusion to clarity, even when the world stays blind to it, resonates with the challenges we face in making others see what we know to be true. It's a strong reminder of the persistent battle for understanding and transformation. Thank you for this thought-provoking piece.
Regards,
Rolph
Comment is about The Christian Kabbala of “William Shake-speare” (blog)
Original item by leonidas kazantheos