Soulie, I went back and was reading some poems and I read many of yours that are amazing!! I like this poem, it reminds me of one particular relationship I had. Hope to see you post some more!!
I’m not a notable poet.
I’ve no wisdom to pass on
through my mere words.
I just find the act itself
to be a comforting event.
I feel that writing poetry,
whatever style that my be
is simply an expression
that could not withstand
the confinements of our minds.
For whatever reason, these
thoughts appear and manifest
themselves into an art-like form.
Since each person is different
and their poetry, simply extensions
of their own personal thoughts,
how can any form of poetry be wrong?
When you read a poem by another,
are you not just interpreting that piece
from your own point of view?
You’re not looking at it from
someone else’s point of view are you?
Of course you’re not, how could you?
I’ve seen people abuse the act
of critique to the point of making
it seem as though their opinion,
is much more valuable than anyone else’s.
How can an opinion be more valuable
than another? Is that possible?
When we write poetry, we are just simply
writing words that reflect some emotion
that we are feeling at that particular moment.
We may even think about it, but regardless,
when it’s all said and done, you’re left with
something beautiful that mimics the feelings
you felt while you allowed the flow of your
thoughts to metamorphosize onto paper.
Critiquing is a respectable deed to give to
another, so that they may perfect their craft.
But it is just an act of applying an opinion.
The true gift of the word comes from the poet
and how they define their emotions.
The poet who created the expression
is the true critic of his or her own work.
The rest is just there for flavoring something
that may otherwise already taste divine.
It’s just art and art can only be appreciated.
**I probably don’t make sense here. On some other boards, I read some work from other poets. In the comment areas, I found nothing that I would classify as a critique. It was more like shredding that poet’s work apart. Anal Retentive is the word that came to my mind. I have seen critiques done in a very professional and civil manner. I just hate to see people abuse their ‘critic’ status to voice an opinion that is basically cruel.
I’m also aware that maybe we can learn from our peers. But, there is no reason to imply to others that you possess some grandiose mind for poetry. You know, they told Stephen King that he shouldn’t quit his day job. They told him he was the worst writer they had seen. Makes you wonder sometimes. Sorry for the rant.**