Her picture and the comments in this report indicate that her passing
- at whatever age, but especially so young - is to be met with deep
sadness and regret for what has been taken from the poetry world
as well as the world at large. .

Comment is about Tributes paid to innovative poet, artist and campaigner Leanne Bridgewater (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

The observation in these lines remains constant in the interest in
the "goings on" of those we (via media reports) consider to be
"celebrities". I think the word has been diminished over my lifetime
to narrow down to show biz and the like, many of whom are "here
today, gone tomorrow" types whose achievements if any are modest,
and even shameful in a personal sense. As for publicity thought
worthy by the media (those "middle-men" to getting fame!), it finds
its home in the sort of thinking that sees a single death as a tragedy but a few hundred as merely a statistic (to misquote Stalin).
I've lost count of the number of times I've noted an item about a
minor male "celebrity" appear on a certain online news site.
Hardly coincidence IMHO - but hardly unusual in an age when
mediocrity is the new excellence!

Comment is about Sadly More Noteworthy (blog)

Original item by Don Matthews

Worth pondering for its essential truth that advantage in war is not
always straightforward and admirable. Fast-forward to the shelling of the French fleet before the Germans (those other European
aggressors) got their hands on the vessels and used them to gain
dominance in the strategically vital Mediterranean. Also, the
bombing of Calais to rubble to force the enemy into retreat circa D-Day and the eventual liberation of Europe. Not to be applauded
but rather to be understood within the wider parameters of war
against a ruthless ambitious foe intent on enslaving a continent.

Comment is about NOT THEIR FINEST HOUR (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Unlike life itself -
I prefer any departure to be brief - and with that hope in mind...
I must come to dust
Or some would add: ash,
And with that in mind
I forked out my cash.
My pre-paid funeral plan
Is what I have got,
Put away in a draw
To pay for my plot! ?

Comment is about Point Of No Return (blog)

Original item by d.knape

Amen Don! Me too. I do however think there are a lot of people in the world who haven't a clue! ❤

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

A time when people transform into vultures.Good stuff D.K.



LS

Comment is about Point Of No Return (blog)

Original item by d.knape

But you are flying my friend, right now, you are half-way around the world with your raw and real words that remind us of our mortality and legacy. Thanks for sharing John. ?

Comment is about Forget-Me-Not (blog)

Original item by John E Marks

Thank you Dorothy and Keith. Like most poems there is an element of autobiography here but there is also an element of observation. The condescending (even cruel) way that elderly, infirm and disabled people are treated in our society makes me really angry. Like you, Keith, my life is circumscribed by arthriris (in my case rheumatoid); some days I can hardly walk. I would be able to accept this a lot easier if I did not see so many people like me treated so carelessly. I am educated and confident, so I can speak for myself. Many others I come across lack those advantages and are treated dismissively. John

Comment is about Forget-Me-Not (blog)

Original item by John E Marks

Thanks Don, Ray, David. Human relationships are so complicated and things get lost in translation all the time. Trees are definitely more straightforward and reliable. They bring the best out in me.

Comment is about Who's Got Your Back? (blog)

Original item by Hazel ettridge

Thanks Don, Ray, David. Human relationships are so complicated and things get lost in translation all the time. Trees are definitely more straightforward and reliable. They bring the best out in me.

Comment is about Who's Got Your Back? (blog)

Original item by Hazel ettridge

You couldn't pay me to steal from you.

Comment is about Mr. Nobody (poet profile)

Original item by Mr. Nobody

Erin, what a beautiful, considered, well written, letter of true love and true honesty.

Life's too short to judge, life's too short to wait, when death is ever waiting at the final gate.

Beautiful.

J. x

Comment is about I barely know you. (blog)

Original item by Erin N. Buckley

Coming back briefly Keith to say

I agree that there can,t be a one size fits all way to paradise and humility is a good way to learn our own life plans. Too much exclusivity exists in institutions and I know you sense this too . If you have faith it is a rung on the ladder out of here so stick by it. Glad you saw my intent! Regards ray

Comment is about Absent (blog)

Original item by keith jeffries

ThanksDon and Dorothy.

Comment is about NOT THEIR FINEST HOUR (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Words of clarity and truth

Thank you

Keith

Comment is about Point Of No Return (blog)

Original item by d.knape

Thank you all who commented. I value what has been said and respect the fact that we all hold different views. What pleases me most is, that despite our differencess, we can engage with one another in a constructive way. My own theology on death concurs with that of my father who asked that his mortal remains be put in a black plastic bag and thrown on the local council tip. I would be happy with that.

Thank you indeed,

Keith

Comment is about Absent (blog)

Original item by keith jeffries

John.
Your poem says so much about the way I feel

I agree with Kieth about smashing windows.

I so long to get my dogs together and take them accross the fields and through the woods that I loved.
I feel as though I can still do it, that is untill I look for my dogs and realize that they are long gone.
I can see the woods in the distance and realize that the distance is to great.

Dorothy

Comment is about Forget-Me-Not (blog)

Original item by John E Marks

John,

Your words sum up how I so frequently feel. A sesne of frustration. The clock cannot be turned back. I often feel that I am under house arrest due to either lack of funds or arthritis. I want to walk through windows......I could smash them.

Thank you for this

Keith

Comment is about Forget-Me-Not (blog)

Original item by John E Marks

Ray
I thought this poem was delicate and sensitive, I also thought it showed a different side to you and I agree with Ray.


When I read it I experienced a a slight sense of shock - I have just written my instructions (well in advance) for my own funeral. (how sad is that)
My instrucion includes -- no ceremony - no mourners - no witnesses.
in the hope that no burden be placed upon a single pair of shoulders.

Please someone write something funny i feel the need to giggle.

Dorothy

Comment is about Absent (blog)

Original item by keith jeffries

Well done John

Comment is about NOT THEIR FINEST HOUR (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Love this one MC, congratulations. ?

Comment is about The Write Out Loud Poem of the Week is 'The Racing Stable' by M.C Newberry (article)

Original item by Stuart Buck

Drugs and knives interlocked ,stop and search a top priority.We must attempt to cut these crimes.

Comment is about A knife changing experience (blog)

Original item by hugh

Phil

I have clicked on like - but like is the wrong word.
Your poem says everything, I won't attempt to comment on it.
Dorothy

Comment is about Cancer (blog)

Original item by mentalelf. Philk.

Don

"And the Earth Sighed" "Sadly More Noteworthy"

Your frustrations are justified - -

Why can't governments everywhere see and understand?'
what is wrong with humanity?
It is all so futille and depressing
Dorothy

Comment is about Sadly More Noteworthy (blog)

Original item by Don Matthews

Ray,

Thank you for your very constructive comments which I greatly appreciate. One of the reasons I am on WoL is to receive such comments as I, along with others, seek to improve the quality and effectiveness of our work. Thank you for this.

The words, religious, Faith, God, the bible, Church and belief have become misconstrued in recent times. They are all seen as being synonymous. Most people shun these expressions, often for understandable reasons. But in so doing many have thrown the baby out with the bath water. I am not religious, I despise the institution of the Church and I read scripture with an open mind as a free thinker. However, having said that I possess a Faith which sustains my spiritual life and gives me a persepctive on life which often puts me at odds with others. I would not darken the portals of the local parish church but say my prayers. I hope this makes sense.

Please continue to comment on my work as your thoughts and ideas are what I am looking for to give me motivation and advice as I try to develop my own poetry and writing. I truly thank you for this.

Keith

Comment is about Absent (blog)

Original item by keith jeffries

Nature is always trying to speak to us. Many times we don't hear it, or if we do , disregard what it is saying

Comment is about Who's Got Your Back? (blog)

Original item by Hazel ettridge

Well said Ray. But no need to get your coat

The other thought I had is how the individual artist is often tortured by his/her own work. Is it good enough? Is it original? Will it be accepted(worst of all). The work can be a kind of gift which may bring a healing hand to those who admire it. States of mind can seldom be controlled, although in clever hands can often be manipulated, as we often see, not with healing results.

I'll get my coat.

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

Vautaw,

Dr. Rosenthal does not need to suggest to me the use of POETRY as a means of healing, inspiring and bringing joy to your life.

Through experience, I know it

Don

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

The build up and drama in such a short piece is beautiful Ray. Lovely observation I was sat watching it happen with you mate.

Comment is about HAWK WIND (blog)

Original item by ray pool

The truth I have learned with my experience with writing poetry is the healing begins within. I created a series of anthologies to raise awareness about the effects of child abuse. Contributors said the writing was sometimes triggering, but mostly cathartic. A few readers came forward to tell me they were able to start writing their story which started the healing process for them. This experience is when I first became aware of the healing power of poetry.

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

“Forgiveness which is the medicine we need to heal.” That is a profound statement David. I agree 100%. I too believe in the power of words. I suppose we all do or we wouldn’t convene here. Thank you for sharing your heart. It is sometimes difficult to convey tone and intention through writing which can lead a conversation down a dark path or even over the edge of a cliff. It’s beautiful when it stays in the light and can be fleshed out to provide a positive outcome for all who come to the well thirsty for a drink of life.

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

Great insights Ray. Thanks for contributing to the conversation. I attended a writers conference last weekend where the professor asked us to describe poetry in one word. “Manipulation” was one of the replies. Interestingly, everyone gave a different answer. Kaleidoscope is the word that comes to me now. We all see from the perspective of our own prism of life experiences. Such is the beauty of the art. Lab coat or straight jacket, it’s up to us to decide which to don. Fascinating world either way. ❤

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

Hi Hazel. I've said this before but I feel it is highly relevant. I made a life changing decision while sat under an old oak for company. I didn't know which way to turn, but something just clicked and the last thirty years have been based upon that on the personal level. Was that a sort of God? It was good enough for me. The beauty of nature is really the joy of the unfathomable.

Ray

Comment is about Who's Got Your Back? (blog)

Original item by Hazel ettridge

I love this for its simple honesty of feeling Keith. To me I feel you have done this highly effectively. It makes complete sense. Forgive me for saying this, but I would rather read a humanly revealing work like this than all the religiose declarations that you often pen, I'm sure with total sincerity , but which are like a closed shop to some. I hope you will accept my honesty here !

The strength of the poem is your own sense of limitation within it. That is gold.

With respect, Ray

Comment is about Absent (blog)

Original item by keith jeffries

A long and fascinating way of extolling the great pianist Tommy. It all feels claustrophobic and yet in its own way liberating - at a high price. I like this type of thought poem you do, you have a knack with it! A fair bit of angst is good in my book.

Ray

Comment is about Wipers in D minor (blog)

Original item by Tommy Carroll

Dear Vautaw, I have read with great interest your exchanges here and some truths emerging, as it should be in an open and honest debate. One thing that becomes fairly clear to me: your implication is that actually the suffering soul is healing others by his revelations. The wonder of poetry is that of sharing similar trigger experiences I feel, voicing one's own perspectives as they resonate. Interestingly potential must be different for everyone and the encouragement of it should be a major aim in society. Sadly much is lost through competition gaining the lion's share of It, and lack of opportunity. It takes dedication to develop it.

The other thought I had is how the individual artist is often tortured by his/her own work. Is it good enough? Is it original? Will it be accepted(worst of all). The work can be a kind of gift which may bring a healing hand to those who admire it. States of mind can seldom be controlled, although in clever hands can often be manipulated, as we often see, not with healing results.

I'll get my coat.

Ray

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

If it 'aint got pain it 'aint the blues...

Comment is about Blues (blog)

Original item by John E Marks

Thanks for the thoughtful feedback David. One of my favorite things about poetry is when it creates awareness and conversations. Actually, there is a doctor (Dr. Norman Rosenthal who pioneered light therapy to treat SAD) who is advocating poetry for healing. New territory perhaps, but I'm excited to see what develops! www.facebook.com/groups/PoetryRx

Comment is about Dear Poet (blog)

Original item by Vautaw

Thank you Damon and Vautaw, for the likes

Comment is about It and I (blog)

Original item by DESMOND CHILDS

WD40 will mend anything
including fences
also good as a deodorant
so come to your senses.

Comment is about Don Matthews (poet profile)

Original item by Don Matthews

I thought I'd try something lighter this time, as an experiment! Thanks for the support Jason!?

Comment is about Wake me up at Dream O'Clock (blog)

Original item by Mae Foreman

Hi Mae, I do like a bit of a dreamlike nonsensical verse. Love it.

J. x

Comment is about Wake me up at Dream O'Clock (blog)

Original item by Mae Foreman

Well-penned Mark! ? John

Comment is about The Write Out Loud Poem of the Week is 'The Racing Stable' by M.C Newberry (article)

Original item by Stuart Buck

Very clever use of so few words to say so much. True enough, the right to write and to freely speak. If people spent more time speaking their true feelings and then, without malice, debating the rights and wrongs, there would probably be less bloodshed.

Comment is about Right to write (blog)

Original item by mona s

Thank YOU Mary!

Comment is about DearAmericaIWroteSomethingSadForYou (blog)

Original item by Rodolfo Perez

Thanks Kate, Keith and Hazel. This was just a daft one that popped into my head.

Cheers Kevin

Comment is about When The Aliens Landed In Grimstone Low (blog)

Original item by kJ Walker

A very good poem with a real depth of significance. Well done.

Thanks
Keith

Comment is about The Gift (blog)

Original item by Kealan Coady

Don,

Very funny mate. It left me feeling quite moist.

Thanks
Keith

Comment is about Please Flush (blog)

Original item by Don Matthews

Hi Cynthia, thanks so much for the comment on Letter From The Lake. You're spot on, typo on wry/rye, doh! Have corrected. Glad you enjoyed it, I watched the film Withnail & I and then this poem just came straight out afterwards. Hope it doesn't ruin the mystery to reveal the process ? Thanks as always, Tom. x

Comment is about Cynthia Buell Thomas (poet profile)

Original item by Cynthia Buell Thomas

I'm so glad that a poem about a personal sporting interest has hit the spot with so many contributors whose own work I value and
appreciate. Thanks to you all ! Back in the 1990s I had a share
in a handicapper that was trained in North Yorkshire and won (and
was "placed" in) some races on northern courses - including the
famous Knavesmire at York. Sharing a parade ring with racing
"immortals" like Henry Cecil (later "Sir") and Pat Eddery is a memory
I treasure from those days.

Comment is about The Write Out Loud Poem of the Week is 'The Racing Stable' by M.C Newberry (article)

Original item by Stuart Buck