Thanks for a great article Dave. The hypocrisy of the media is unbearable. Screaming hysterically about a few swear words in a poem, while bribery, corruption and phone hacking are endemic.
Comment is about Tony Harrison's v. and the commodification of outrage (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
I haven't a clue what the previous comment has to do with this story. To re-focus, it's interesting to note the lawyer's confidence that Ajamai will eventually be pardoned, as reported by al-Jazeera. Let's hope he's right.
Comment is about Qatari poet's life sentence cut to 15 years (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
I've just had Nurikabe Nights accepted for publishing for this lot
http://thelooseleaftea.org/
so thought I'd drop a quick 'thank you for the inspiration' note.
Ta!
Comment is about Dave Bradley (poet profile)
Original item by Dave Bradley
Thank you Mike, Philip, Izz and Chris. It might be worth saying that this iniquitous tax doesn't affect me personally. Also mentioning that I did witness the situation described in the first verse. When someone has been a housing officer in inner-city Liverpool for 22 years, it must take a lot to bring tears to their eyes.
PS - good points Izz and Philip
Comment is about Bedroom Tax (blog)
Original item by Dave Bradley
Harry,
Sometimes I just sit on the front step for days on end to give her a hard time!
Comment is about Frowns of Silence (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
John,
Don`t even ask, just stay hunched till it`s all over.
Comment is about Frowns of Silence (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
Tom,
caught this in a post-holiday trawl-through.
I subscribe to Cynthia`s appreciation of the sonnet form.
Having once blogged a poem on this subject, I was again amazed at the paucity of re-action - on a site where almost any subject under the sun is argued about - to the idea of mothers in early pregnancy having their incipient progeny plucked from them and destroyed. I appreciate that the legal, moral, and the societal nub of the thing centres around the status of embryonic development , but why is it so seldom a subject of discussion or argument in this country (when - in America - it can even be a factor in presidential elections, why the almost deafening silence here?
I am mystified.
Comment is about The Sanctity of Life (blog)
Original item by Tom Chapman
Ray,
Like Steve I admire the `Ectoplasm would ache for orgasm`... Also the way the inexact rhyming helps the supposing to run casually.
It made me think of Homers `twittering` take on your `ghostly gaseous entities` - how insubstantial the`spiritual` sometimes feels.
The most re-assuring words in the `Credo` are -for me - `the resurrection of the body`.
Comment is about Soul Music (blog)
Original item by Ray Miller
Hi David,
Thx for the feedback on my latest poem - life. Glad you liked it - the encouragement is appreciated.
My Best
Chris
Comment is about David Blake (poet profile)
Original item by David Blake
I can only echo Mike's words.
Well said and well put Dave.
Best
Chris
Comment is about Bedroom Tax (blog)
Original item by Dave Bradley
It would be nice if everyone could have living accommodation that accommodated them comfortably - the ideal, in a less than perfect world.
Perhaps you should add 'buy to let' investment to the list of things we should all be thinking about. Essentially landlords are taking advantage of the fact that people can't afford to buy their own homes, to cash in on the money they will make on a house they don't need. And very few private landlords say 'DSS WELCOME'. If all that tied up investment was released not only would house prices drop, but the ecomomy might benefit...
We'd all buy to let if we had the money to do it, but it IS food for thought...
Comment is about Bedroom Tax (blog)
Original item by Dave Bradley
Tony,
But would a polished turd be better?
A well-known defence against a charging grizzly bear in Canada, is to hold out a handful of your own shit (readily available at that time) And repel it with the smell.
However, should such a turd be polished (and probably reflective) would you be accused of unecessary cruelty to a dumb animal if the bear should drop dead at the reflection of its own ferocity?)
I only ask to warn against possible prosecution by the Canadian RSPCA.
Comment is about Polishing a Turd (blog)
It sounds utterly miserable Harry. Welcome home and I hope that you are now well.
Comment is about stay and cruise (blog)
Original item by Harry O`N eill
Thanks for the comment on 'Way Out By the Rapeseed Field' David. I certainly do have my own slant on things, that's a nice way of putting it I guess ;)
Comment is about David Cooke (poet profile)
Original item by David Cooke
Really great, flowing piece! Nicely done.
Comment is about Hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia (blog)
Original item by Ian Whiteley
Port Isaac you say? I hope to be there when he is! :)
Comment is about Simon Armitage heading west on new poetry trek (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
Howdy Ray
I applied a couple of your suggested edits to 'Jack's Alright', and Poetry24 have just published it, so thank you for your suggestions :)
I removed the 'ing' from 'slander', and the 'But' from the start of one of the lines :)
Ta la!
Comment is about Ray Miller (poet profile)
Original item by Ray Miller
Well said and well put Dave. Keep on banging the drum long and loud.
Mike
Comment is about Bedroom Tax (blog)
Original item by Dave Bradley
Hi Marc. May I make a few observations on your observations Marc?
Little flies are usually fairly unwelcome in anyone’s ointment (unless of course it’s some kind of fly-based ointment/remedy popular in remote tribal cultures.) It’s probably not the most comfortable place to be – in the ointment that is. Ah yes, we are lured in by that irresistible scent of Parma Violets and Toilet Duck, only to find our feet being sucked into that cloying emulsion of oil, water (and various nasty-chemically things with scientific formulae) and our wings pinioned to our sides by a greasy slick of goo. Ooh no, not for me.
Your assertion that nothing beats a hypocrite is a little questionable. I could well imagine some able chap (say with perhaps an interest in medieval re-enactments at the weekends) with a stout stick beating a hypocrite every time – indeed, I would recommend it (especially since the poetry world seems to be so full of them.)
And must it not be concurrently true that those “small talents – sold for far too much” are therefore purchased too dearly? Shame on all buyers of poetry – and a pox on them!
I’ve tried writing poetry whilst patting someone on the back – I simply hadn’t realised it was a competitive sport; to be honest it’s nigh on impossible. Marc – you must have a rare talent, don’t waste it. I’m sure the performance poetry glitterati will soon be beating that well-trodden path to your door when they hear of your unique abilities. In fact I can see you making the big-time with this idea. Just imagine a great circle of poets – all patting and writing at the same time – sort of like “The Tiller Girls” – except with notebooks. Go for it!
This “little club of fools” idea sounds a good one! Is it a bit like Bullingdon – with a hint of Brownies and Tufty thrown in? Do they have cake? I’m all for it – sign me up!
By the way – welcome to WOL Marc (note to self: sounds uncomfortably like Wal-Mart.) Hope you enjoy the friendly and mutually supportive atmosphere here.
Comment is about Tony Harrison's v. and the commodification of outrage (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
Is that a criticism of this poem Marc - or of the article and the consensus of enjoyment? I'm just curious.
Some of what you say I'd probably agree with. In every field of art there are people who get on through networking and self publicising. Once people or a poem has a reputation, it becomes hard to say exactly what you think - even if they are a one trick pony.
For many, poetry is a hobby, a means of thrashing ideas around, of communicating with like minded people. Should we really castigate them for supporting fellow poets? On the opposite side of the same coin are the poets who never read or comment on the work of others – just expect the world to revolve around them – is that scenario any better?
If your comment is about the poem, I must admit to finding some of the rhyme contrived. I don't think it's the technique of the poem that makes it newsworthy though. For me it is the ideas. The poem dares to talk about real issues - something many people would shy away from today. Confronting loss of community, alienation, and the potential to be ugly that lies within us all.
Those are my thoughts anyway
Comment is about Tony Harrison's v. and the commodification of outrage (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
thanks once again David - pleased you liked 'Beneath The Watch Tower'
Ian
Comment is about David Blake (poet profile)
Original item by David Blake
FEBRUARY 2013
It was a busy night at the Ringers with 20 combined poets and audience members, the mood was good as everyone seemed in high spirits. The Nearly Dead's took us on a ride on "The Gravy Train", while on his own Alvin Sawdust performed "Non too Canny Danny" about gambling addiction. Deslexic got us all aboard " Captain Cameron's Canoe". Julia had "A Screw Loose" and Ken had us all in hysteria with his modern day Jesus. Carol treated us to "Sunday Lunch" while Andrew told us of his rebirth entitled Ides. Pete told us of the all too familiar "Curtain Twitchers" and New poet Adam enchanted us with the subject of death. Eileen spoke of "Co-operation" and Norman rejoiced in the moment that words are born. Rod performed in Shakespearean style for his poem "As You Come". Lastly but not least Catherine Coward delivered an outstanding showcase with pieces such as " Love is" and "Raised from the Page", she read her poems with finesse while keeping the listener engaged. So Well Done Catherine.
Feedback
Areas for Improvement
Main comments were about it being cold. Il have a word with the landlord and see if he can put some heat on. Failing that il bring my portable heater.
Good Points
Great night as usual, Excellent range, Wide range of material, Excellent night as usual, Lovely entertaining night, Good folk easy, reading easy, listening easy!!! Aren't we all wonderful, All, Great variety of poetry, Wonderful set Catherine, Great night as usual, great guest reader, Norm funny night, love it! Had a great time, full of sparks, Variety, comedy eccentric entertainment! Humorous.
Next months guest is yet to be confirmed but Gemma Lees will be back!!
A write up by Norman Warrick of the first half of the night.
In the first half we heard the voice of our conscience tell us to shovel away left over snow. We did that watched by nosey neighbours, watching us while they had their Sunday lunch and drowned their roast from the Gravy Train. We must of all had a screw loose because we should of had a duvet day or read from the gospel according to John, instead of listening to old Deaf Bell Nell.
By Norman Warrick
Review is about Write Out Loud - Middleton on 24 Feb 2013 (event)
Hi David. Thanks for kind comment on my Montale and the Hoopoe poem. Just read and enjoyed this one of yours. You definitely have your own slant on things.
Comment is about Way Out By the Rapeseed Field (blog)
Original item by David Blake
Didn't the Williams team start in wheelbarrows? I heard they could change a wheel in under 4 seconds. After that the natural progression to Formula 1 was inevitable.
Comment is about Depends (blog)
Original item by Dave Carr
Nowt wrong wi' a bit of tickle me auld cock.
Comment is about Tickle Cock Lane (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
<Deleted User> (10123)
Sun 24th Feb 2013 20:10
I'm well chuffed. Sorry for delay in reply been driving away from home with no access to computer.
Donation to: Burma Star Association, please,
Many thanks to all.
will put next competition:
Comment is about Cat Competition Result (blog)
Original item by Dave Bradley
The cunning lingers on! A very erotic piece done nicely.
Comment is about A little bohemia in Warwick (blog)
Original item by Katy Megan
<Deleted User> (9882)
Sun 24th Feb 2013 16:55
you never fail to
please the imagination Frederick.x
Comment is about You carry me each day (blog)
<Deleted User> (9882)
Sun 24th Feb 2013 16:52
very good piece indeed Katy.x
Comment is about A little bohemia in Warwick (blog)
Original item by Katy Megan
What a fabulous dramatic tale,well done,loved it.
Comment is about The Emergency Room Visit (blog)
Original item by Shirley Smothers
the poem has now appeared here folks
http://www.inksweatandtears.co.uk/pages/?p=93
Comment is about From a Midnight train (Bolton) (blog)
Original item by Andy N
As Londoners are known to say:
Wotcher' cock!!
Comment is about Tickle Cock Lane (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
<Deleted User> (10933)
Sun 24th Feb 2013 00:06
i cannot adequately express more than a.e.'s comments so instead of submitting a cookie-cutter-ism i will simply agree; i too am a cat lover-cat watcher-even a crazy-cat-woman as those who are compassionate are often tagged-accused-demeaned and i have found many "locks that won't accept my keys"--you write the words in my heart that go unspoken, but which i store in the vaults of my soul--so when i see my thoughts from another's pen, i am overcome with wonder of the man who was always cloaked in mystery, never seeing him clearly when i could see, and now as i strain through my now blinded eyes he is in clear focus.
Comment is about When A Cat Goes Out (blog)
Original item by J. Otis Powell‽ (with interrobang)
Nice haiku. I try to write haiku but most is not very good.
My friend would love this.
Shirley
Comment is about I Love You (blog)
Original item by Larisa Rzhepishevska
ah, a cas lad eh John. Well, as they say at t'right side ot common - "there's nowt as queer as cas folk". Liked this one - watch out for a wakey tribute very soon :-)
Comment is about Tickle Cock Lane (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
..oh, and thankyou for trying to hunt down Yvonne.
I think the problem was with her Profile, not with any of us.
It seems sorted now.
Comment is about M.C. Newberry (poet profile)
Original item by M.C. Newberry
I like the idea of warming up cheese in the back of the telly.
Thanks for your thoughts, Dave.
Comment is about Dave Carr (poet profile)
Original item by Dave Carr
Thankyou for your observations on warming up bottles, Yvonne.
Comment is about Yvonne Brunton (poet profile)
Original item by Yvonne Brunton
hello MC,
Thanks for your thoughts on "Progress and The Diggy Box".
Curiously we had a small portable which we used in the caravan which could pick up East German TV when we were at Filey, but struggled to pick up British channels!
Comment is about M.C. Newberry (poet profile)
Original item by M.C. Newberry
Hello Margaret,
Many thanks for commenting on "Progress and The Diggy Box". You're right; so many had the spindly, silver legs.
We also had the record player which was a box in red and silver, so popular in the 60's.
Comment is about Margaret Holbrook (poet profile)
Original item by Margaret Holbrook
I hope you understand that...it's not a propaganda but...just another haiku.
Comment is about I Love You (blog)
Original item by Larisa Rzhepishevska
<Deleted User> (10933)
Sat 23rd Feb 2013 18:53
from 1985 to 2013 and the studios of wsre--i admired you and your gift of soul--as i struggled to escape from the black hole i had fallen trying to find light which left my heart and my eyes..i am in awe as i read your poetry once more..i am like a child on christmas morning with rainbow colored gifts as i will read item by item...karon
Comment is about Anniversary (blog)
Original item by J. Otis Powell‽ (with interrobang)
Excellent effort again Ian. The final stanza, as you'd expect, made me re-read and re-assess the piece. Just one of those poems that rewards with each reading. Keep up the good work!
Comment is about Beneath The Watch Tower (blog)
Original item by Ian Whiteley
That's alright. Thanks for looking at it!
Comment is about Angry Autumn (blog)
Original item by David Blake
Thanks for the kind words Frederick. It's not my photo, no, I just searched for a photo of the area that this poem is based on, due to my memories of the place.
Comment is about Way Out By the Rapeseed Field (blog)
Original item by David Blake
JC - I didn't succeed in locating YB's page to
leave your message - either by clicking on one
of her comments or by inserting her name under
"search". I left that problem with Isobel.
Now I notice that Julian( WOL) has left her
address above. I'll leave that to you.
Cheers.
Comment is about John Coopey (poet profile)
Original item by John Coopey
Dave Bradley
Tue 26th Feb 2013 11:21
Congratulations, Laura. It's a fine poem - it will be interesting to see what response there is from the wider audience. The website looks fascinating. It isn't clear whether publication will be online, but if it is, could you send a link (no pressure).
What continues to fascinate me about the ancient Japanese myth is what it says about us all being travellers who meet mysterious endless invisible walls which baffle us until we stoop low and discover their secret. So 21st century - we're all living it.
Comment is about Laura Taylor (poet profile)
Original item by Laura Taylor