The mind boggles doesn't it. We used to play in nearby disused dry-bed quarries and there was a sticky-out piece of rock called 'devil's tooth' that you had to go out and stand on (like walking the plank) in order to join the gang..........it was a full 60ft above the ground!
Similar to other commenters, a neighbour's boy... a 'friend' threw a dart half the length of his garden and it hung out of my leg and was removed by his dad!.... a quick spit wash and no harm done!
We had it easy as kids.
Comment is about Imagination (blog)
Original item by Trevor Alexander
<Deleted User> (18980)
Mon 5th Aug 2019 16:50
I knew I recognised you Trevor...you were that boy who hit me in the eye with your peashooter all those years ago!
Comment is about Imagination (blog)
Original item by Trevor Alexander
Hi Trevor, I think those were the days of real adventures as they took place in a different environment outdoors and offered exciting things like hiding places for us to spring from. I had one friend who inflicted quite serious wounds on me, but he was a nutter. We used blowpipes, catapults and air pistols- serious stuff. I've said enough!
Enjoyable trip thanks.
Ray
Comment is about Imagination (blog)
Original item by Trevor Alexander
There are so many things in this piece that 'get my goat" comparing the audiences of Kate Tempest and the Poet laureate for one
..........ludicrous.
"to illustrate his point that what he called “ecstatic poetry”, including cheering, whooping and stamping of feet, was a perfectly “valid poetic activity”
...............this happens at most music gigs I go to, even at classical music events too!
For a social movement to grow, it needs new – and preferably young – people … Ideally the movement should offer the opportunity for them to express themselves, sing, dance, laugh, and make noise. Spoken word lives comfortable alongside all of these activities.”
..................this has happened every decade since I was 14 that I can remember, has he not heard of Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, M&M Punk, Rap, etc etc!
I know he needs to sell as book! Fair do's but claiming that spoken word is at an all time high is, to my thinking, over-egging the sales pitch a little too far!
Comment is about Let's hear it as spoken word reclaims the stage: poet launches book on its rebirth (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
I was interested to read the report in the latest online edition of the
West End Extra newspaper (for central London) about a certain
Tom Foot recalling his father Paul Foot...and highlighting Shelley's
lines. Watching the television images of the Russian police at work
with their batons challenging and arresting hundreds of political
protesters, it occurred to me that if they had been given swords
instead and the authority to use them, then history could well have repeated itself, even today. When a nervous type of government
feels under threat it will react - in certain instances with deadly
force, as has been seen more than once beyond these shores in
recent times.
Comment is about Remembering Peterloo: reading by Manchester poets and Shelley recitals to mark 200th anniversary (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
A worthy poem conveying how real life can actually be when relieved of its moral burden or expectation - no doubt still could shock but it's time to contact the living for some.
I love the last line especially. Your light and airy style really works when it digs in deep as on here Cynthia.
Ray
Comment is about 'She's a Prostitute' (blog)
Original item by Cynthia Buell Thomas
I find the "herd/pack" analogy very apt in these lines and agree
especially with Don's comment. When I'm next "nose to tail" on the
A303 near Stonehenge I shall probably remember this blog!
Comment is about MOAN ALONE (blog)
Original item by ray pool
I've known those who offered their bodies in various ways for payment.
Their choice never impinged on their likeability or otherwise. A
market is a market and commerce being what it is, who would
condemn any choice that put bread on the table or, perhaps, gave the person a sense of worth via being admired and/or desired?
Comment is about 'She's a Prostitute' (blog)
Original item by Cynthia Buell Thomas
Wise decision imo. Poetry is a subjective medium and if you get the the accolade of course it feels wonderful but then a bit like hiring a Ferrari for the day it becomes a past dream and frustrates those who feel they are in some sense worthy. Too much egotism on the site leads to self delusion.and potw encouraged that. I speak as one who knows how it feels having been delighted to receive it. I'll get my coat.
Comment is about Time to take a break for Write Out Loud's Poem of the Week (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
A fabulous poem of searing depth and content. I loved every word.
Thank you
Keith
Comment is about Echoes of history (blog)
Original item by John E Marks
<Deleted User> (17847)
Mon 5th Aug 2019 13:56
no wonder the big wigs pedestalled you recently girl, you are are it
again!
Comment is about Whoa (blog)
Original item by Lisa C Bassignani
On that, you have my word Lisa.
I would say, "Keeping smiling," is almost my stock in trade.
You know that old saying, "I'm not angry, I'm just disappointed?"
I'm so grateful for my close family, close friends and all those I know whose driving force is integrity, and for once again re-establishing close ties to my sisters and brother. Nuff' said I think.
J. x
Comment is about Riffing On Divinity (blog)
Original item by Jason Bayliss
Mon 5th Aug 2019 12:16
Poem of the Week
you say is through,
now what on earth
are we to do?
Far Autumn then
till you resume,
in the meantime we
poor poets doomed!
Comment is about Time to take a break for Write Out Loud's Poem of the Week (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
Removing the toxic elements of life is not always easy. Yet they can only be neutralized for so long.
Positive thinking keeps the naysayers at bay.
Keep smiling Jason
Comment is about Riffing On Divinity (blog)
Original item by Jason Bayliss
Trevor, a poem of a delightful reminiscent quality. Beautifully written and which will be enjoyed by many. Thank you for this, Keith
Comment is about Imagination (blog)
Original item by Trevor Alexander
Should we check you for a fever?...LOL
I really like this Don. Keep on keeping on, cuz the past is just that.
Comment is about Resow (blog)
Original item by Don Matthews
Devon Brock
Mon 5th Aug 2019 10:49
This is fantastic Adam. I agree with Mae on that final tercet. Not being schooled in Greek myth, I had to look up a couple of things, but that's okay with me. Another thing I would like to point out is that the line lengths employed - ever expanding with each stanza and idea - is something I've never seen in a sestina, though I have also never performed an exhaustive survey of sestinas.
"In silence is no final word"! Oh yes indeedee that is delicious.
D
Comment is about Consequence - A Sestina (blog)
Original item by Adam Rabinowitz
Wonderful sestina Adam! I loved the theme of Persephone combined with Narcissus! I love Greek mythology! Excellently executed and a beautiful story. That last tercet was the pinnacle and quintessential of the whole poem! Very well done! Try your hand in anything that you find interesting and challenging, get out of your comfort zone, that's the best way to go about it!
Bravo again!?
Mae
Comment is about Consequence - A Sestina (blog)
Original item by Adam Rabinowitz
Our newcomers tend to be younger, Dom, yes. But we value all ages, of course - and we have a good mix. Our age range was older when you came to read to us at Send a couple of years ago - it began to change after we moved to the Lightbox art gallery in Woking. But come and read with us again, and see what you think. That applies to others on Write Out Loud, too!
Comment is about Let's hear it as spoken word reclaims the stage: poet launches book on its rebirth (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
Is it really the invariably young turning up at Woking, Greg? To my mind poetry has always been a come all ye, and I'm not put out in the least if the considered, written word can be trumped by a flash of inspiration. All the same, it's good verse, bad verse or chaos.
As the Nobel Laureate puts it:
Get sick get well hang around the ink well.
Comment is about Let's hear it as spoken word reclaims the stage: poet launches book on its rebirth (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman
I can hear you baiting up from down here. Waiting for the next big catch?.... ..
Wot's this nonsense about twaddle? Think you got your WOLers mixed up......
Comment is about Resow (blog)
Original item by Don Matthews
<Deleted User> (18980)
Mon 5th Aug 2019 07:52
Don - this piece is a cut above your usual twaddle. Can the standard be maintained? We wait with bated breath.
Comment is about Resow (blog)
Original item by Don Matthews
I did it!!!
I wrote a sestina...my first ever.
Super happy for edits, questions or suggestions.
Comment is about Consequence - A Sestina (blog)
Original item by Adam Rabinowitz
Yes Devon Boris does look
He looks a little glum
No idea to sort things out
Perhaps he's sorta dumb?
Perhaps he wishes he was
Right back being Mayor
Where he could clown to hearts content
With plenty room to spare.......
Comment is about Boris Has a Problem (blog)
Original item by Don Matthews
So true for me. I feel like I am talking to a friend when I write or read poetry.
Comment is about Poetry Understands (blog)
Original item by Vautaw
Such a wonderful poem. Thank you for sharing.
Comment is about Green Shadows (blog)
Original item by David Blake
That’s some powerful poetry you are sharing Adam. One makes me want to go swimming and float for eternity, another reminds me of a time capsule that could be opened 1,000 years from now to decipher how we made it through the mayhem to continue the human race. Definitely adding you to my favorites to enjoy your lyrical lessons❣️???
Comment is about Adam Rabinowitz (poet profile)
Original item by Adam Rabinowitz
Good one Adam! Thank you so much for stopping by to read my poetry and leaving feedback. This was a fun one to write. I love when it flows from my brain/soul to the page!
Comment is about Good for You (blog)
Original item by Vautaw
Thank you Devon and Adam. ...but remember, sarcasm is the lowest form of wit....
"Be not afeard. The isle is full of noises,
Sounds, and sweet airs that give delight and hurt not.
Sometimes a thousand twangling instruments
Will hum about mine ears, and sometime voices
That, if I then had waked after long sleep,
Will make me sleep again. And then, in dreaming,
The clouds methought would open and show riches
Ready to drop upon me, that when I waked
I cried to dream again."
The Tempest. Act 3 Scene 2. Shakespeare's last play. Spoken by Caliban the lowly, revolting 'barbarian'..
Comment is about A blackbird sings on Bluebird hill (blog)
Original item by John E Marks
Devon Brock
Sun 4th Aug 2019 23:37
Funny how that photo resembles Jeff Daniels in "Dumb and Dumber". Hmmm.
D
Comment is about Boris Has a Problem (blog)
Original item by Don Matthews
I do like this Ray. The lines :
cars sniff each other
like dogs on heat
are great......,
Comment is about MOAN ALONE (blog)
Original item by ray pool
Such an epic scope to your work here. Hope for the butterflies.
Comment is about A blackbird sings on Bluebird hill (blog)
Original item by John E Marks
Devon Brock
Sun 4th Aug 2019 22:20
What a fun read, John. Love the sarcasm in the last four lines. I tip a glass of red to you.
D
Comment is about A blackbird sings on Bluebird hill (blog)
Original item by John E Marks
Devon Brock
Sun 4th Aug 2019 22:08
Such a great story, Cynthia, the lack of judgement, the acceptance that Sarah was someone more and deeper than a label, with the added bonus that compassion and community do not require a dictate from above. Well told and necessary.
D
Comment is about 'She's a Prostitute' (blog)
Original item by Cynthia Buell Thomas
elPintor
Sun 4th Aug 2019 21:51
..lotsa love to you and Bill Murray--to all of us living Groundhog Day over and over again )
Comment is about Whoa (blog)
Original item by Lisa C Bassignani
HeyHo! A Canadian fellow!
Poetry catches me when it catches me, never planned. But not daily either.
Welcome to WOL.
Comment is about cindylee loucks (poet profile)
Original item by cindylee loucks
Taste that moment, then hit the gas hard because the roads always uncertain but the mistakes are truly worth making.
J. x
Comment is about Whoa (blog)
Original item by Lisa C Bassignani
Thanks Devon it's me that should be thanking all of you for your patience. In truth I did walk away from it for a little while just to give myself a break. And don't worry about commenting, although certainly don't feel you have to. Thanks mate.
J. x
Comment is about Riffing On Divinity (blog)
Original item by Jason Bayliss
I agree with Wolf - on both counts!.
Effective standing back analysis Ray.
More than good.
Tommy
Comment is about MOAN ALONE (blog)
Original item by ray pool
branwell have you seen "Marathon Man" - say it slowly ?
Tommy
Comment is about An Everyday Poem (blog)
Original item by branwell kent
Thanks Rachel for sharing those salient points with which I completely agree. Many tools can be fairly quiet affairs and also the whispering of a plane can be therapeutic or indeed anything that requires complete attention . A sort of meditation, utterly different from my savage poem! Crafts in the workshop are GO. Aythangyo.
Comment is about ONE OF THE NOISY BOYS (blog)
Original item by ray pool
Devon Brock
Sun 4th Aug 2019 12:48
Jason, I haven't commented on your poetry of late, as nothing I can write could help move you through your grieving. But I must say, must thank you for sharing these poems with us, all beautifully written honest, of the moment. These poems will help guide me in my own times of loss which will inevitably come. Thank you for these.
D
Comment is about Riffing On Divinity (blog)
Original item by Jason Bayliss
Sheesh dk what have you done?
You've told us password knape
*12#890+@66!!
My mouth is all agape
But then I look more closely
You blighter you're quite smart
Ten letters in the password
Not six and two ex marks
I cannot answer problem
When cyberspace jam packed
Facial recognition
Might stop us being hacked
Comment is about Password (blog)
Original item by d.knape
Sun 4th Aug 2019 12:01
This did not happen overnight. Much time and effort went into it's creation. Well done.
One may sometimes feel my 'flippancy' is disrespectful. This is not my intention but to add some 'brightness' to an otherwise difficult situation.
Moaning can be cathartic
And WOL provides a place
Where we can moan to heart's content
Rhyme 'way and fill up space
Now Jason you're a good boy
You're moaned out, properly
You have agreed to now move on
And left moan space for me
How kind......
Comment is about Riffing On Divinity (blog)
Original item by Jason Bayliss
elPintor
Sun 4th Aug 2019 11:37
Hi Ray,
I keep coming back to this in my mind. Not that I care to make comparisons against "the boys", but there are times when I can think of no better place to escape than a workshop full of tools and "projects" in various stages of completion about. In moments, when I allow myself to dream, I have such a place. Sometimes, the combination of noise with the process of creation is a form of solace for a restless mind.
..well into a great lazy Sunday, here--guess I'll have to settle for my book and a long walk later in the afternoon to keep me distracted )
Rachel
Comment is about ONE OF THE NOISY BOYS (blog)
Original item by ray pool
If it’s hard to understand in 7 words, try 5 minutes’ worth.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1RjBH9psCPI
Comment is about LGBTQIA+ (blog)
Original item by John Coopey
Greg Freeman
Mon 5th Aug 2019 17:10
"Claiming that spoken word is at an all time high is, to my thinking, over-egging the sales pitch a little too far!" Is this the same Graham Sherwood who has said in the past that he has never attended an open-mic poetry night?!
Comment is about Let's hear it as spoken word reclaims the stage: poet launches book on its rebirth (article)
Original item by Greg Freeman