Clever,honest and humorous.xx

Comment is about Erotica (blog)

Original item by Alex Smith

Strewth Michael! your best one yet.Great news on the home front as well eh what? Enjoy,say us oldies.xx

Comment is about ...............As Suns Set (blog)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

extraordinary stuff

Comment is about Moon Month (blog)

Original item by Cynthia Buell Thomas

Thankyou for reading my poem kind regards Wendy .

Comment is about Noetic-fret! (poet profile)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

Good point, MC. It hadn't occurred to me that those savings had already had tax paid on them when they had been earned. Nevertheless I am still more relaxed over tax avoidance (as opposed to evasion) simply because someone gets bigger gulps of air than me. I buy into fairness but not envy.

Comment is about TALKIN' DAVE AND GEORGE BLUES (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

You are clever - I liked this v. much.

Comment is about (blog)

Original item by Twilbury Wist

I fear we all have a big pile if shit underneath us, and after all a throne is a throne no matter from what it is made. Having said that I try not to let myself be fooled that my throne is golden. I know the recipe from which it was created and the stench that rises from it can be sickening at times. Great work - thanks for sharing.

Comment is about ...............As Suns Set (blog)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

I read this last night as I was lying in my bed and I really enjoyed it, although possibly not the best choice for a bit of bedtime reading. A clever piece of work.

Comment is about he means well (02/21/2015) (blog)

Original item by Zach Dafoe

Why do our brains do this to us. As soon as your head hits the pillow all the worries of the world start to spin around in your mind. I enjoyed your poem - thanks.

Comment is about 4 a.m. (blog)

Original item by Lynn Dye

I’d been wanting to visit the poetry night Petersfield Write Angle for quite some time. I’d been intrigued as well as informed by the detailed reviews sent in to Write Out Loud on a regular basis by its organiser for eight years, Leah Cohen, and their mentions of semi-legendary figures – at least to me - such as Audi Maserati and Rachel Pantechnicon, names that I somehow associated with the A3 trunk road that rushes past this historic Hampshire market town. Rachel, an irregular guest poet at Write Angle, wasn’t there on the night I visited – I understand she’s a fairly elusive figure these days – but I got to hear Audi, and a host of other entertaining open micers, plus guest performance poet Lucy English, pictured, from Bristol but with links to and memories of this neck of the woods, too.

One of the wonders and pleasures for me of poetry open mic nights is that each has its own identity. But first impressions can be misleading. I thought at first that Petersfield Write Angle was a kind of old-fashioned literary society, and regarded affable compere Jake Claret’s reference to the steepness of the stairs to the room above The Square Brewery pub and the possibility of installing a stairlift as an ironic reference to the mobility of some audience members. As possibly it was. But you only have to look at their snazzy website and extensive roster of big-name guest poets to know that there’s a lot more to Write Angle than that. By the end I left full of enthusiasm for a night packed with interesting and unexpected contributions, and charmed by the warmth and generosity of the audience, too.

The range of open mic contributions included former soldier Duncan Filer’s despatch from Helmand; Richard Hawtrey’s elegant reworking of an Icelandic poem found on a flyleaf in a Petersifled bookshop; Michael Usuwana’s rap poem praising women with generous figures; Barry Smith’s reflections on prostate cancer patients awaiting radiotherapy; and a report back from the frontline of abusive relationships by Imogen Thomas (“This is the first time I’ve done this in public.”)

Then came my Audi Maserati moment. He did not disappoint, turning out to be a laid-back, hippy figure retaining a decent amount of wild hair, and a nice line in songs that he played on a superior kind of ukulele. There was also Speech Painter, with a poem of epic length and historic sweep about the modern-day issue of cartoons and cartoonists; Bruce Parry on the hammer dulcimer, which he said had helped his writing, such as his poem about ‘Mr and Mrs Insular’; John Smith’s monologues about comedy and poetry; Chris Sangster’s poignant poem with a happy ending called ‘The Widower’, sandwiched by two songs; and G Rhymes (“It’s not his real name, but he likes to be called Grimy”) with a poem called ‘The Oral Tradition’, about a poetry appreciation class.

Lucy English is a novelist and poet who has performed worldwide, and now teaches performance poetry at Bath Spa University. She was once described as a “hippy chick love mother sex goddess”, although she tends to play that down these days, pointing out that she is now a grandmother. But she did recall being known as one of "‘those disgusting hippies", and being banned from local pubs, when she lived near Petersfield in the early 1980s.

Her poems at Petersfield were warm, wise, amusing and touching, and delivered in a confiding, easy-on-the-ear voice. Her set included ‘The Company of Poets’, which concludes with these lines: “They know everything’s been said before / but they’re going to say it again. / In case you didn’t hear it the first time.”

‘The Ghost in Clapham’ is about thinking she saw her long-dead father “buying squashy plums opposite the underground”, and contains sensible and resonant reflections on his life, and his daughter’s as well. The longer, three-part ‘My Mother and my Sister’ was even more moving. For an encore, there was a change of pace, with ‘Let Me Be’, of which it is fair to say that it’s definitely about sex.

Host Jake and founder/organiser Leah also read poems towards the end of the evening, and are a fine team. Leah had suffered a fracture which meant it would be difficult for her to file her customary review this month. So she was grateful that I was there to fill the gap. I know this won’t be up to her knowledgeable standard and word-length, but here’s my effort, anyway. The atmosphere and fun at Petersfield was just another reminder – as if I needed reminding – of how much I love this job. And I won the raffle!

Greg Freeman

Review is about Petersfield Write Angle Poetry and Music + OPEN MI on 17 Feb 2015 (event)

The likes of ISAs, PEPs, TESSAs, Premium
Bonds and winnings from gaming/gambling
can be excluded from any breast-beating when one accepts that involvement in them
is invariably from income already taxed -
via PAYE.
The manipulation of BIG money between business
and private income needs rather more appropriate
attention and that is what we supposedly pay
the likes of HMRC to sort out, within the
constraints placed upon it by the laws conjured up
by Parliament, aided and abetted by the
numerous members of the legal profession
to be found there.

Comment is about TALKIN' DAVE AND GEORGE BLUES (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

It is probably true that through the ages the
very rich have feared the poor ("the mob") for
the perceived possibility of the latter rising
up and seizing what they possess...as happened
in the French Revolution for example. In that instance however, the cause was far too much
self-regard by the comparative few and no care whatever for others. The real survival trick for the wealthiest is to adjust to knowing
and allowing for the fact that most folk seek only to
have enough to live without fear or want, with
no real desire to own estates, yachts et al and
all the hassle (responsibility?) that comes
with them, not least caring in supportive ways for all the staff necessary for their upkeep!
There is a certain irony in the latter, of course.
But as the old adage has it: enough is as good
as a feast. This can apply to life in general.

Comment is about THE LOSING SIDE. (blog)

The fact that the site of this proposed turbine
had not been visited by those councillors who
gave approval suggests a knee-jerk response to
wider political support for these huge environmentally intrusive edifices. What are
they paid for, if not to investigate properly
before making such potentially damaging decisions
and to be able to justify that inaction when
rightly challenged?

Comment is about Campaigners win court victory in fight to preserve view from Dylan Thomas Boathouse (article)

Original item by Greg Freeman

Recently, on MSN,a most interesting article was
found (from the National Journal) about the
version of Islam used by ISIS - basically that
Mankind is doomed anyway and their idea of the
intentions and preachings of the Prophet means
they have nothing to lose in the long term and
that Islam ( a religion which uses the word
"infidel" to demonise unbelievers and thus considers
them for disposal via execution/slavery etc.) is the one "true" religion...and their version
is nearer to the Prophet's vision of the
superiority of Islam.
If we take the latter as "gospel", then we
may understand the wider spread of Islam via
the mosques that have been permitted to be
built in the West when Christian places of
worship enjoy no such elasticity of consent from Muslim lands.
All religion is about "control" - mind and body...and none dare admit it for fear of being
found out. What was that old saw? Ah yes...
"Softly, softly, catchee monkey".

Comment is about Don't You Dare (blog)

Original item by Dave Dunn

Top poem, Patricia, love it! x

Comment is about True gypsy (blog)

Nothing less than the truth,and nothing less than absolutely STUNNING!

Well played my friend,x

Comment is about ...............As Suns Set (blog)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

Hi Jacqueline, enjoyed this lovely little poem of yours.

Comment is about Blind Love (blog)

Original item by Jacqueline Phillips

A poem that can calm your inner self !!! Good work !!!

Comment is about let it go (blog)

Original item by surakshith kumar

Always dreamed of the romantic gypsy life, but living in the country is the second best thing. Wood smoke galore here in the winter. Lovely poem.

Comment is about True gypsy (blog)

Catch you soon fella.x

Comment is about Noetic-fret! (poet profile)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

pardon me guys,come back on to connect with Mikey for a min.

Mike,your 'better news' has made my day!
Now get those fucking boots on..

..and get Yorky Dales yomping!x

Comment is about True gypsy (blog)

Hi guys,

I moved out of Greater Manchester. About time to you may say. You know me, I been a struggler for years but now, I am feeling a little bit clearer in mind due to the move.

I am in the Skipton Area of North Yorkshire now at the foot of the Yorkshire Dales. I could cry tears for how much better i feel. Still, my heart goes out to those in the city who I know run the gauntlet every day just in hope of survival.

But getting to this piece, aye, following these old traditions I hope they never die. And it's fitting reading this piece in my current surroundings as most folk here burn wood for winter fuel. When you walk outside you can smell the wood, which also reminds my wife or her hometown of Durban SA.

While some would balk at leading a life like this, the romance of a true gypsy woman from our mythical understanding always seems a damned sight more passionate and truthful than how we live.

I hope they make it through.

Best wishes you two and much love.

Mike

xx

Comment is about True gypsy (blog)

can almost smell the wood smoke guys.
Top piece Patricia!x

Comment is about True gypsy (blog)

Aye Travis,

Sometimes I beg only the poorest communities know morality, but are thwarted in conveying this in daily life because of survival. Still, ask the poorest communities would they be willing to share the wealth and look after the ill and infirm and most would sound a resounding yes.

However, power, power and the wealthy, will always divide the poorest peoples, because what is said of poor people, is that, 'they' will want all that you have. That's what was said of the city children who went to the country during WW2, that philosophy, still ruminates today.

It takes poverty to see the light, it take education to resolve issues of discord. The wealthy have their finger on the pulse of education, but rather disuade society from bringing poor people within their intellectual orbit. Poor people have their own morality born of hardships, and the paradox in all of this.

While one side alone wins, global humanity fails, loses.

I get your drift mate, i hope you get mine.

Best wishes blue

Mike

Comment is about THE LOSING SIDE. (blog)

Nice one Wendy!

Mike

x

Comment is about PLACES (blog)

Original item by Wendy Higson

Hi,

Just thought I would log in to say..............TOP!

This is where I'm at most of the time.

Best wishes blue!

x

Comment is about (blog)

Original item by Twilbury Wist

I don't know how to answer that Lauren.
Thanks for reading ;-)

Comment is about camp fire (blog)

Original item by Twilbury Wist

Thanks for your comments on 'Don't You Dare' Lynn. Peace is the only way to achieve any stable world order - we've seen all attempts to use violence fail throughout history - and each time a new megalomaniac tries his hand, their reign is shorter than the previous bunch.

Of course they are generally too egocentric to notice history shows they have little prospect of success beyond a few years at most. best wishes, Dave

Comment is about Lynn Dye (poet profile)

Original item by Lynn Dye

Thanks Lynn. Peace is the only way to achieve any stable world order - we've seen all attempts to use violence fail throughout history - and each time a new megalomaniac tries his hand, their reign is shorter than the previous bunch.

Of course they are generally too egocentric to notice history shows they have little prospect of success beyond a few years at most. best wishes, Dave

Comment is about Don't You Dare (blog)

Original item by Dave Dunn

Thanks Harry, in my experience, true fear is generally a quiet experience. Your comments are much appreciated.

Comment is about FEAR (blog)

Original item by Jacqueline Phillips

Hi Jacqueline thanyou for your comment on my poem EDITH my mum had eltzimers for 25 years she was lovely and died aged 95 regards Wendy Higson

Comment is about Jacqueline Phillips (poet profile)

Original item by Jacqueline Phillips

Heart-felt for sure Wendy :). Tommy

Comment is about HEALTH CENTRE (blog)

Original item by Wendy Higson

Dave,
I agree with Lynne, some very pertinent points very well (and rhythmically) put...particularly the points about distortion and deceit.

The problem is that any of the millions of people who
go to war for any of a million `reasons` usually belong to some religion or other anyway.

A good site on the casualties of wars is the Wiki one called List of wars by death toll. (where we find that the so-called `religious` ones come way down the list)

Comment is about Don't You Dare (blog)

Original item by Dave Dunn

Travis,
good spot...fixed it...thanks.

Graham,
I agree about the `me` bit...turfed it..thanks.
(But I think the end bit `fits`).

John,
whilst agreeing with you about the joy of a hearty, prolonged, soul-satisfying fart at any time usually, you`ve got to admit - it does rather spoil
the ambience a little...`afterwards`.

Comment is about Afterwards (blog)

Original item by Harry O`N eill

Powerful words, Dave, and I completely agree with you.
I have read that the only one common ground that all religions hold is 'love thy fellow man'.
That says it all really, doesn't it?
Well done on this poem.

Comment is about Don't You Dare (blog)

Original item by Dave Dunn

Lovely piece Harry. I didn't need the last paragraph at all and rather think it spoils the flow of the main work.

I would change one of the two "such's" too. I lay back would improve I lay me back I think.

Good work Harry

Comment is about Afterwards (blog)

Original item by Harry O`N eill

Hi again Mikey.'All' taken on board.Bit rushed this morning.Will get back to you.Lots of love.

Rose.x

Comment is about Noetic-fret! (poet profile)

Original item by Noetic-fret!

It's 2015... Still wondering if I missed that one fleeting moment.

Catch moments every day. Still looking for that moment that defines my very own 'I AM', or my son's or daughters 'I am'

We become defined by what we create, which in turn creates meaning and so defines us and recreates us.

What You can be .... And the fight to achieve it defines what you are ...

Comment is about What if..... (blog)

Original item by Nicky Burrows

Thanks Rose and Autumn for the lovely comments :)

Comment is about I still (blog)

You some kind of 21st century, in-touch-with-your-feminine-side pooftah, Harry?
When I've done it I just want to fart, roll over and go to sleep. You know - man stuff.

Comment is about Afterwards (blog)

Original item by Harry O`N eill

Hello Harry,
Thanks for your thoughts.
I am a bit more ambivalent about tax avoidance. We all do it and are encouraged to do it. Charity shop Gift Aid, Premium Bonds, NSI Certificates, ISAs etc. So I can't get exercised just because somebody with more brass than me does it.
But from what I've read this seems to be clear tax evasion, with HMRC turning a blind eye to it. I do get exercised by that.

Comment is about TALKIN' DAVE AND GEORGE BLUES (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Thank you Rose for your support! :)

Comment is about Hidden truth (blog)

Original item by Elisabeth

Jackie,
I`m glad you included the `quiet` kind in this:

`Negatives become my norm`

`A lingering apprehension`

`The scream that never speaks`

Comment is about FEAR (blog)

Original item by Jacqueline Phillips

Elisabeth thank you for the bravery (and the needing)to share the way you are feeling according to this poem.

Really really wish I had a magic wand to lend you.The least I CAN do is offer you my sympathy and sincerely hope you can manage to eventually rise above it all.Love and good luck to you.


Rose.x

Comment is about Hidden truth (blog)

Original item by Elisabeth

John,
Reading something today made me think of this. It is absolutely amazing the number of former leaders of
the financial institutions who were swindling the system end up in government positions intended to fix it. I know all about the `poacher turned gamekeeper` situation, but it seems to argue that there is not enough knowledge or experience in government for them to do it for themselves...If this is so it needs to be sorted out quickly, before we all go down the cooey.

Comment is about TALKIN' DAVE AND GEORGE BLUES (blog)

Original item by John Coopey

Thanks Rose.Yep,but its only me(Patricia) on duty tonight.Stef is out on his iron horse.xx

Comment is about Toying (blog)

that last stanza really puts the sole on the fine boot of a poem.Well done that there Patricia


got ten mins if you want to chat?x

Comment is about Toying (blog)

Travis,
I doff my cap to any poet who can get a word
like psephologists into a poem...If you can find a rhyme for it I`ll get down on my knees :)

Comment is about THE LOSING SIDE. (blog)

Thanks all for the kind comments...especially those humorous ones...(Ken, `every night`?...if only, man, if
only :)...And, Jackie, those snores were pure bliss...
pure bliss!...cherish him, girl, cherish him!

Comment is about Afterwards (blog)

Original item by Harry O`N eill

This makes me smile. So many lovely word pictures.

Comment is about I still (blog)