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#2023
On December 23, 2023, I was pursuing my job, As a Probationary Officer, At the State Bank of India. My colleagues and parents gathered, It was very nice; what should I say? For a vegetarian's delight showered, They had gathered together that day. In Panchkula, it was the F.T.P.—2, or Foundational Training Program 2, All the probationers were there, Where, in SBILD, Panchkula. Celebrated my birthday a bit late, For I reached there on a later day, Not that my arrival was delayed, Que sera sera, just systemic delay. 'Twas memorable, Many colleagues. We broke the ice, I made no couple. I reached the age of 33 years that day, Like this time I'll complete 34 years, But I miss being a child, or a kid, Those birthdays were special. On my 33rd birth anniversary, I felt more than a year younger. Finally a successful professional, And obviously an eligible bachelor. Still unmarried, now as a choice, I don't find a compatible voice, Those judge me by my past, My successes matter not. Men Going Their Own Way, MGTOW seems a good idea, The only viable option for me, Isn't that the only one for me? All I have with me, Are just memories, Some are besotten, Others a' forgotten. They consider me depressed, Maybe I'm just depressed, But I lack any real friend, Lacking any inspiration. I may have achieved success, Academic and professional, Like Granger & McGonagall, Scripted through dedication. Coming out of the shadows, Like the full moon out there, My parents be proud of me, Getting married isn't crucial.
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Nov 4, 2024
Nov 4, 2024 at 11:52 AM UTC
My Birthday of December 23, 2023
On December 23, 2023, I was pursuing my job, As a Probationary Officer, At the State Bank of India. My colleagues and parents gathered, It was very nice; what should I say? For a vegetarian's delight showered, They had gathered together that day. In Panchkula, it was the F.T.P.—2, or Foundational Training Program 2, All the probationers were there, Where, in SBILD, Panchkula. Celebrated my birthday a bit late, For I reached there on a later day, Not that my arrival was delayed, Que sera sera, just systemic delay. 'Twas memorable, Many colleagues. We broke the ice, I made no couple. I reached the age of 33 years that day, Like this time I'll complete 34 years, But I miss being a child, or a kid, Those birthdays were special. On my 33rd birth anniversary, I felt more than a year younger. Finally a successful professional, And obviously an eligible bachelor. Still unmarried, now as a choice, I don't find a compatible voice, Those judge me by my past, My successes matter not. Men Going Their Own Way, MGTOW seems a good idea, The only viable option for me, Isn't that the only one for me? All I have with me, Are just memories, Some are besotten, Others a' forgotten. They consider me depressed, Maybe I'm just depressed, But I lack any real friend, Lacking any inspiration. I may have achieved success, Academic and professional, Like Granger & McGonagall, Scripted through dedication. Coming out of the shadows, Like the full moon out there, My parents be proud of me, Getting married isn't crucial.
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52
More than seventy years seen still looked more keen and what a year it has been Yet cannot believe you didn't see the year twenty three what a hell it has been Not seeing you anymore Looking down from the window, the one I most adored why did you leave me, Since the last day of last December, The winter is freezing me like never before!
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Dec 26, 2023
Dec 26, 2023 at 7:06 AM UTC
Grandma
As 2023 cometh to an end Thankful am I, to have many a friend Who have been there for me Through an emotional rollercoaster of a year Some of whom, are as dear As a family member or a cousin And who ensure that I don't sin! Truly, this has been a tornado of a year Many occasions there have been When I have shed many a tear Sometimes, the grass has been green Other times, a mess of overgrown weeds However, planted have been the seeds For a new beginning Though a lot of work is still pending!! As the countdown for 2024 begins Hoping am I, for a lot of things To be cleared, are my dues To be overcome, are my work blues To be conquered, are my fears With the help of my dears To be fought, are my insecurities To be handled, all are uncertainties To be managed, is stress To be bought, is a new dress To be controlled, is my intake of sugar Even if my problems get bigger and bigger To be developed, is confidence To be taken, are many a chance To be less dependent on, are people Else, get caught I might, in a tangle And finally, must I be happy as I am Including not giving a **** About what the society may or may not think While I enjoy a drink! Just like every other year To 2024, do I look forward Hopefully, it may bring a reward For all my sincere efforts Even if I haven't followed all the dos and don'ts You may see a new Ashwin More capable of handling pain I may even find love Even if it doesn't seem possible right now Finally learn, may I, how to say 'No' Though the process may be slow However, fear I need not If I follow Jesus' teachings a lot Because, he is the most important person In my entire life And will always save me when there is strife To be learned from him, are many a lesson Finally, to 2023, is it time to say goodbye And leave all my anxieties high and dry Dear 2024, do I welcome thee With arms wide open Let this be the beginning Of a new innings May we all smile more often Even when not required May all our pain be buried And finally, may we all love each other Including becoming friends across borders Wish you all a very Happy New Year in advance! Let us begin the dance!! Amen!! Hallelujah!!
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Dec 23, 2023
Dec 23, 2023 at 7:04 AM UTC
Dear 2024, Do I Welcome Thee
As 2023 cometh to an end Thankful am I, to have many a friend Who have been there for me Through an emotional rollercoaster of a year Some of whom, are as dear As a family member or a cousin And who ensure that I don't sin! Truly, this has been a tornado of a year Many occasions there have been When I have shed many a tear Sometimes, the grass has been green Other times, a mess of overgrown weeds However, planted have been the seeds For a new beginning Though a lot of work is still pending!! As the countdown for 2024 begins Hoping am I, for a lot of things To be cleared, are my dues To be overcome, are my work blues To be conquered, are my fears With the help of my dears To be fought, are my insecurities To be handled, all are uncertainties To be managed, is stress To be bought, is a new dress To be controlled, is my intake of sugar Even if my problems get bigger and bigger To be developed, is confidence To be taken, are many a chance To be less dependent on, are people Else, get caught I might, in a tangle And finally, must I be happy as I am Including not giving a **** About what the society may or may not think While I enjoy a drink! Just like every other year To 2024, do I look forward Hopefully, it may bring a reward For all my sincere efforts Even if I haven't followed all the dos and don'ts You may see a new Ashwin More capable of handling pain I may even find love Even if it doesn't seem possible right now Finally learn, may I, how to say 'No' Though the process may be slow However, fear I need not If I follow Jesus' teachings a lot Because, he is the most important person In my entire life And will always save me when there is strife To be learned from him, are many a lesson Finally, to 2023, is it time to say goodbye And leave all my anxieties high and dry Dear 2024, do I welcome thee With arms wide open Let this be the beginning Of a new innings May we all smile more often Even when not required May all our pain be buried And finally, may we all love each other Including becoming friends across borders Wish you all a very Happy New Year in advance! Let us begin the dance!! Amen!! Hallelujah!!
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66
~ November 2023 HP Poet: Lori Jones McCaffery Age: 84 Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Lori. Please tell us about your background? Lori: "I was born Loretta Yvonne Spring in a tarpaper shack on Lone Oak Road, Longview Washington, on New Years Day in 1939. That means I’ll soon turn 85. In high School a boyfriend changed my first name to Lori and I kept it. At 29 I married and became Lori Spring Jones. (I signed poems “lsj”) I had one child, a daughter, and when 20 years later I divorced, I kept the Jones name. I married again, in 1988 and became Lori Jones McCaffery, sometimes with a hyphen, sometimes not. I’m still married to that Brit named Colin and I speak “Brit” fluently. I sign everything I write “ljm” (lower case). I didn’t know about handles when I joined HP, so I just used my whole name and then felt I may have seemed uppity for using all of it. If I had a handle, it would likely be POGO. Short for Pogo stick. Long Story. I have an older sister and a younger brother. Both hate my poetry. My parents divorced when I was 12. My mother’s family was originally from No. Carolina. I’m proud of my Hillbilly blood. I went to college on a scholarship. Worked at various jobs since I was in high school. Moved to Los Angeles in 1960 just in time to join the Hippy/summer-of-love/sunset-strip-scene, which I was heavy into until I married. I read my stuff at the now legendary Venice West and Gas House in Venice Beach during that period. I’ve been an Ins. Claims examiner, executive secretary, Spec typist, Detective’s Girl Friday, Bikini Barmaid, Gameshow Contestant Co-ordinator, Folk Club manager, organizational chef, and long time Wedding Director. (I’ve sent 3,300 Brides down the aisle) " Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Lori: "I wrote my first poem in the 5th grade and never stopped. I had an awakening in 1957 when I worked at a resort during school break and met another poet, who unleashed a need to write that I’ve never been able to quell. I joined Hello Poetry in 2015, I think. Seems like I’ve always been here. I tend to comment on everything I read here. I’ve received no encouragement from my family so I feel compelled to encourage my “family” here. I do consider a large number of fellow writers friends, and value the brief exchanges we have. I don’t know if Eliot intended HP to be a social club but among us regulars, it kind of has been, and I love that." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Lori: "Living inspires me. The intricacies of relationships, and the unpredictability of navigating society. A news story often does it. A song may stir words. Other poetry often sets me off on a quest of my own. I write very well to deadlines and prompts. I adore BLT’s word game and played it a lot in the beginning. Seeing the wonderful job Anais Vionet does with them shamed me away. I have hundreds of yellow lined pages with a few lines of the ‘world’s greatest poem’ on each, all left unfinished because I’m great at starts and not so great on endings. Some day, I tell myself….some day." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Lori: "Poetry has been a large part of my life as long as I can remember. I would feel amputated without it. I recited the entire “Raven” from memory in Jr. High School. I still remember most of it. More recently I memorized “The Cremation of Sam McGee” Poetry is my refuge - with words I can bandage my hurts, comfort my pain and loss, share my opinions and assure myself that I have value. It is where I laugh and also wail. I would like to think it builds bridges." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Lori: "My favorite poets include Edgar Allen Poe, Robert W Service, Amy Lowell (I read ‘Patterns’ in a speech contest once), Robert Frost, Shel Silverstein, and Lewis Carroll." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Lori: "I’m a collector. Whippet items, vintage everything, I read voraciously: 15 magazine subs, speculative fiction (SF) and anything else with words written on it. I try to read everything every day on HP. I watch Survivor religiously and keep scorecards. Ditto for Dancing with the Stars. I’m a practicing Christian with a devilish side and involved heavily in Methodist church work, which includes cooking for crowds and planning events." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, dear Lori! It is an honor to include you in this series!” Lori: "Thank you so much for this very undeserved honor. This is a wonderful thing you are doing. I know I write with a different voice than many, and it is empowering to be accepted for this recognition. I apologize for being so verbose in answering your questions. When you get to my age you just have so many stories to tell." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Lori better. I learned so much. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez & Mrs. Timetable We will post Spotlight #10 in December! ~
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Nov 2, 2023
Nov 2, 2023 at 5:19 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Lori Jones McCaffery
~ November 2023 HP Poet: Lori Jones McCaffery Age: 84 Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Lori. Please tell us about your background? Lori: "I was born Loretta Yvonne Spring in a tarpaper shack on Lone Oak Road, Longview Washington, on New Years Day in 1939. That means I’ll soon turn 85. In high School a boyfriend changed my first name to Lori and I kept it. At 29 I married and became Lori Spring Jones. (I signed poems “lsj”) I had one child, a daughter, and when 20 years later I divorced, I kept the Jones name. I married again, in 1988 and became Lori Jones McCaffery, sometimes with a hyphen, sometimes not. I’m still married to that Brit named Colin and I speak “Brit” fluently. I sign everything I write “ljm” (lower case). I didn’t know about handles when I joined HP, so I just used my whole name and then felt I may have seemed uppity for using all of it. If I had a handle, it would likely be POGO. Short for Pogo stick. Long Story. I have an older sister and a younger brother. Both hate my poetry. My parents divorced when I was 12. My mother’s family was originally from No. Carolina. I’m proud of my Hillbilly blood. I went to college on a scholarship. Worked at various jobs since I was in high school. Moved to Los Angeles in 1960 just in time to join the Hippy/summer-of-love/sunset-strip-scene, which I was heavy into until I married. I read my stuff at the now legendary Venice West and Gas House in Venice Beach during that period. I’ve been an Ins. Claims examiner, executive secretary, Spec typist, Detective’s Girl Friday, Bikini Barmaid, Gameshow Contestant Co-ordinator, Folk Club manager, organizational chef, and long time Wedding Director. (I’ve sent 3,300 Brides down the aisle) " Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Lori: "I wrote my first poem in the 5th grade and never stopped. I had an awakening in 1957 when I worked at a resort during school break and met another poet, who unleashed a need to write that I’ve never been able to quell. I joined Hello Poetry in 2015, I think. Seems like I’ve always been here. I tend to comment on everything I read here. I’ve received no encouragement from my family so I feel compelled to encourage my “family” here. I do consider a large number of fellow writers friends, and value the brief exchanges we have. I don’t know if Eliot intended HP to be a social club but among us regulars, it kind of has been, and I love that." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Lori: "Living inspires me. The intricacies of relationships, and the unpredictability of navigating society. A news story often does it. A song may stir words. Other poetry often sets me off on a quest of my own. I write very well to deadlines and prompts. I adore BLT’s word game and played it a lot in the beginning. Seeing the wonderful job Anais Vionet does with them shamed me away. I have hundreds of yellow lined pages with a few lines of the ‘world’s greatest poem’ on each, all left unfinished because I’m great at starts and not so great on endings. Some day, I tell myself….some day." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Lori: "Poetry has been a large part of my life as long as I can remember. I would feel amputated without it. I recited the entire “Raven” from memory in Jr. High School. I still remember most of it. More recently I memorized “The Cremation of Sam McGee” Poetry is my refuge - with words I can bandage my hurts, comfort my pain and loss, share my opinions and assure myself that I have value. It is where I laugh and also wail. I would like to think it builds bridges." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Lori: "My favorite poets include Edgar Allen Poe, Robert W Service, Amy Lowell (I read ‘Patterns’ in a speech contest once), Robert Frost, Shel Silverstein, and Lewis Carroll." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Lori: "I’m a collector. Whippet items, vintage everything, I read voraciously: 15 magazine subs, speculative fiction (SF) and anything else with words written on it. I try to read everything every day on HP. I watch Survivor religiously and keep scorecards. Ditto for Dancing with the Stars. I’m a practicing Christian with a devilish side and involved heavily in Methodist church work, which includes cooking for crowds and planning events." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, dear Lori! It is an honor to include you in this series!” Lori: "Thank you so much for this very undeserved honor. This is a wonderful thing you are doing. I know I write with a different voice than many, and it is empowering to be accepted for this recognition. I apologize for being so verbose in answering your questions. When you get to my age you just have so many stories to tell." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Lori better. I learned so much. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez & Mrs. Timetable We will post Spotlight #10 in December! ~
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22
look in the mirror see what appears its clear im the ferror i shed a tear the end is near im not from here i was born in a single digit year 10k years take it from a peer dear my jet leer sirens going off terror fear lie an smoke look in the mirror blood on my hands youre ******* sick its evident the past is pretence force more powerful then the presidents im **** near napolean an the earth my ship theres a twist in my hips when i unload this **** on everyone bare witness an return my lifeline to sanctions im alive the dawning of a new beginning  you shall never walk over me with illuminatic presentations we will make you jews extinct an no bomb shall ever hold me prisoner in my babylon the world is in debt you made me i give you birth you are saved its ok bless us we will not fail again a master plan across the holy lands extinguisher on my wrist bish best be disciplined or its detention boss hilter cree is alive an im coming for your head
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Oct 18, 2023
Oct 18, 2023 at 4:00 PM UTC
"The Other Side of The Wall" B: Z-Man
From the bases to God To a radio signal This revelations of perpetual assumption Chaos an order faith an sin Adam an eve Good an bad Positive an negative Look at you Without basis you have no language You have a built block of perseverance thru a book Through the forces of heaven an hell we created artificial intelligence We can go light speed thru texts Noone has become the Shakespeare Noone has been the king We are thriving but dead Alive but not free There is no way you can control anything Brain implants DMT aliens Nuclear excavation War death inhumane acts Starvation you have air conditioner Where is your mindset Where is your God My God is here he talks to me May I be his voice May I break free of restraints The Lord must return His time is due If he's real why is he not here when we need him most You're asking all the wrong questions you're looking in all the wrong places You will never be woke You will never be alive You will never break free The day you live for The excitement They will come for me They will save me I'm waiting for something that will never happen It's facts The truth is the only truth that can save us the truth that in me the king speaks He's here we have him let us rejoice Let us come together no matter what you understand no matter your view this is proof of higher being proof of something you can't see when you can see to realize but when you see you realize you can see a lot more an no drug is more powerful then sharing human spirit to develop our nature in one hand to our duty of the law of the land in the fact it has been written noone else can write over it it's there an not leaving it's been done achieved an facture in you will never an won't know until you see it for yourself I just pray it's not to late to save you from the fiery depths holding us back in hell from the heavens we call forth a social construct to develop a new word an restart to incline into development towards berterin human life an future to set In stone for any one from hence on no choice it's real post secular demise and the truth of social assurance towards the divide
0
Oct 18, 2023
Oct 18, 2023 at 3:58 PM UTC
Post secular truth on social assurance
From the bases to God To a radio signal This revelations of perpetual assumption Chaos an order faith an sin Adam an eve Good an bad Positive an negative Look at you Without basis you have no language You have a built block of perseverance thru a book Through the forces of heaven an hell we created artificial intelligence We can go light speed thru texts Noone has become the Shakespeare Noone has been the king We are thriving but dead Alive but not free There is no way you can control anything Brain implants DMT aliens Nuclear excavation War death inhumane acts Starvation you have air conditioner Where is your mindset Where is your God My God is here he talks to me May I be his voice May I break free of restraints The Lord must return His time is due If he's real why is he not here when we need him most You're asking all the wrong questions you're looking in all the wrong places You will never be woke You will never be alive You will never break free The day you live for The excitement They will come for me They will save me I'm waiting for something that will never happen It's facts The truth is the only truth that can save us the truth that in me the king speaks He's here we have him let us rejoice Let us come together no matter what you understand no matter your view this is proof of higher being proof of something you can't see when you can see to realize but when you see you realize you can see a lot more an no drug is more powerful then sharing human spirit to develop our nature in one hand to our duty of the law of the land in the fact it has been written noone else can write over it it's there an not leaving it's been done achieved an facture in you will never an won't know until you see it for yourself I just pray it's not to late to save you from the fiery depths holding us back in hell from the heavens we call forth a social construct to develop a new word an restart to incline into development towards berterin human life an future to set In stone for any one from hence on no choice it's real post secular demise and the truth of social assurance towards the divide
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~ October 2023 HP Poet: Maddy Age: 65 Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Maddy. Please tell us about your background? Maddy: "Retired Teacher now Media and Digital Literacy Educational Consultant and writer." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Maddy: "Been writing since I was eight. Three years now as an HP member." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Maddy:  "Poetry wakes me in the middle of the night on airplanes and when I walk. It is still one of my best friends other than my husband, sister, and Best BFF Irene." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Maddy: "It is my friend and companion and is a precious asset. Without it my life would be empty." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Maddy: "Thoreau, EE Cummings, Sappho, MAYA Angelou, Carole King, Emily Torres, Mary Oliver, Millay, and many here on HEPO." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Maddy: "I love Travel, Photographer, Nature, Cooking, Theatre, Concerts, and Reading." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, dear Maddy! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Maddy: "Thanks and looking forward to it and your review of my book on Amazon." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Maddy a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #9 in November! ~
0
Oct 1, 2023
Oct 1, 2023 at 3:33 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Maddy
~ October 2023 HP Poet: Maddy Age: 65 Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Maddy. Please tell us about your background? Maddy: "Retired Teacher now Media and Digital Literacy Educational Consultant and writer." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Maddy: "Been writing since I was eight. Three years now as an HP member." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Maddy:  "Poetry wakes me in the middle of the night on airplanes and when I walk. It is still one of my best friends other than my husband, sister, and Best BFF Irene." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Maddy: "It is my friend and companion and is a precious asset. Without it my life would be empty." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Maddy: "Thoreau, EE Cummings, Sappho, MAYA Angelou, Carole King, Emily Torres, Mary Oliver, Millay, and many here on HEPO." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Maddy: "I love Travel, Photographer, Nature, Cooking, Theatre, Concerts, and Reading." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, dear Maddy! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Maddy: "Thanks and looking forward to it and your review of my book on Amazon." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Maddy a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #9 in November! ~
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~ September 2023 HP Poet: Old Poet MK Age: 80, but feels 79 Country: Canada Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Old Poet MK. Please tell us about your background? Old Poet MK: "I was a poor scholar…difficult concentration issues from grade school onward…very little was known about dyslexia in those early years…it’s a bit of a different world…many blessings and all kinds of curses. I was fortunate to invent and able to patent a few things that people were willing to pay for. My wife and I opened a small factory and manufactured decorative accessories for interior designers in the commercial market, offices…malls…lobby’s, etc. Making a living doing something you enjoy…feels good…and for almost 40 years It was hard working fun…I was inventing day and night." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Old Poet MK: "I recall attempting poetry when I was in my early 20’s…lyrics for tunes, etc…but I didn’t keep a record of that period, it wasn’t until my early 50’s when Leonard Cohen captured me in the magic of his rhythmic language…it was a melodic trap…the lyrics blew my mind and my world got a little bigger, from that time on I wrote frequently…and read the work of many poets trying to figure out how it all works….I wrote for my own enjoyment and a deep desire to improve...I began to submit my poems on a couple of sites about 12 years ago…I finally found Hello Poetry in 2016…the best of the lot in its own way…There are talented wonderful people here…" Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Old Poet MK: "There’s no particular formula or pattern….I think it happens when I get a little edgy…and my unconscious has observed a puzzle untamed…for me poetry is self discovery, it emerges raw…and I do my best to tame it." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Old Poet MK: "Poetry is important to me….a sense of fulfilment digesting the work of the great poets…incredible philosophies between the words….reading the work of fellow poets…learning from heartfelt insight…I take my own work seriously and work hard on interpretation and refinement…it all feels a worthy time spent….squeezing meaning out of abstraction and allegory tongues or plain words. The freedom of poetry is a gift….the lightning speed of brevity conquers a complex point in a flash….compared to a few pages of prose…it is a fascinating creative process using colors of your own choice…up down or sideways…verse rhyme or hybrid…you birth an original poem." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Old Poet MK: "Leonard Cohen…I understand his misery. Irving Layton…another Canadian poet…a close friend and mentor of Cohen…fascinating love poems. Bukowski…for his genius and dignity. Mark Strait…amazing work that surprises. Billy Collins…the lightness of his heart. Emily Dickinson…who forced me to find the voice in a poem and it’s attitude to help me understand and interpret (as important as writing itself) and I don’t always get it…" Question 6: What other interests do you have? Old Poet MK: "It is wonderful when one retires and has a few hobbies and deep interests. I’m an Audiophile…with a proud record collection and old vintage gear. I clean, preen and constantly improve. I paint large abstract expression (acrylic on canvas), they take a long time, sometimes one will surprise me and end up on a wall. I’ve been playing saxophone since I was a kid….never could read worth a nickel, yet it’s been very rewarding…the challenge and joy of improvisation trusting your ear. In the world of jazz I’ve met and performed with amazing people…" Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, my friend! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Old Poet MK: "Thank you Carlo…Appreciated….What you do is not easy…" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Old Poet MK a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #8 in October! ~
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Sep 1, 2023
Sep 1, 2023 at 2:31 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Old Poet MK
~ September 2023 HP Poet: Old Poet MK Age: 80, but feels 79 Country: Canada Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Old Poet MK. Please tell us about your background? Old Poet MK: "I was a poor scholar…difficult concentration issues from grade school onward…very little was known about dyslexia in those early years…it’s a bit of a different world…many blessings and all kinds of curses. I was fortunate to invent and able to patent a few things that people were willing to pay for. My wife and I opened a small factory and manufactured decorative accessories for interior designers in the commercial market, offices…malls…lobby’s, etc. Making a living doing something you enjoy…feels good…and for almost 40 years It was hard working fun…I was inventing day and night." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Old Poet MK: "I recall attempting poetry when I was in my early 20’s…lyrics for tunes, etc…but I didn’t keep a record of that period, it wasn’t until my early 50’s when Leonard Cohen captured me in the magic of his rhythmic language…it was a melodic trap…the lyrics blew my mind and my world got a little bigger, from that time on I wrote frequently…and read the work of many poets trying to figure out how it all works….I wrote for my own enjoyment and a deep desire to improve...I began to submit my poems on a couple of sites about 12 years ago…I finally found Hello Poetry in 2016…the best of the lot in its own way…There are talented wonderful people here…" Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Old Poet MK: "There’s no particular formula or pattern….I think it happens when I get a little edgy…and my unconscious has observed a puzzle untamed…for me poetry is self discovery, it emerges raw…and I do my best to tame it." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Old Poet MK: "Poetry is important to me….a sense of fulfilment digesting the work of the great poets…incredible philosophies between the words….reading the work of fellow poets…learning from heartfelt insight…I take my own work seriously and work hard on interpretation and refinement…it all feels a worthy time spent….squeezing meaning out of abstraction and allegory tongues or plain words. The freedom of poetry is a gift….the lightning speed of brevity conquers a complex point in a flash….compared to a few pages of prose…it is a fascinating creative process using colors of your own choice…up down or sideways…verse rhyme or hybrid…you birth an original poem." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Old Poet MK: "Leonard Cohen…I understand his misery. Irving Layton…another Canadian poet…a close friend and mentor of Cohen…fascinating love poems. Bukowski…for his genius and dignity. Mark Strait…amazing work that surprises. Billy Collins…the lightness of his heart. Emily Dickinson…who forced me to find the voice in a poem and it’s attitude to help me understand and interpret (as important as writing itself) and I don’t always get it…" Question 6: What other interests do you have? Old Poet MK: "It is wonderful when one retires and has a few hobbies and deep interests. I’m an Audiophile…with a proud record collection and old vintage gear. I clean, preen and constantly improve. I paint large abstract expression (acrylic on canvas), they take a long time, sometimes one will surprise me and end up on a wall. I’ve been playing saxophone since I was a kid….never could read worth a nickel, yet it’s been very rewarding…the challenge and joy of improvisation trusting your ear. In the world of jazz I’ve met and performed with amazing people…" Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, my friend! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Old Poet MK: "Thank you Carlo…Appreciated….What you do is not easy…" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Old Poet MK a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #8 in October! ~
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~ August 2023 HP Poet: Amanda Kay Burke Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Amanda. Please tell us about your background? Amanda: "It just so happens my HP handle is my actual full name. When I originally signed up on this site it was wordybirdy333 but a friend of mine suggested my real name would seem more professional and I was inclined to agree so Amanda Kay Burke it's been ever since. I am 28 years old physically but will forever be a kid at heart. And I was born and raised in the US; Alaska more specifically. I have to admit I haven't accomplished a whole lot yet in my life, seeing as how I suffer from recurring depression/addiction problems. Which is probably an excuse, but hey everyone has their issues. I have lived in a small town called Willow, AK basically my whole life; I have only been out of state one time (that I remember) but I would love to travel and see the world one day. My mother passed away last year so since then I have been keeping my dad company trying to provide whatever emotional support I am able to. I have a Chihuahua named Mocha and she is my best friend and one of my only friends these days but the few people I do hold close to my heart make my life worthwhile." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Amanda: "I have been writing poetry since I was just a kid, probably nine or ten years old, but I remember being eleven when I wrote the first poem that I knew was actually good. I have been a member of HP since April 2017 so that makes six years now huh? Wow time flies..." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Amanda: "Patty m described it perfectly when she said that it feels like they write themselves at least the truly superb pieces do. I don't know where the words come from sometimes they just flow from the pen and when I'm done I read it over and get goosebumps because I can't believe that it came from my hand/brain. But the majority take a lot of effort. I like to challenge myself to always keep writing when I can, even when I have writers block and don't approve of the result. And I always post it eventually just to compare against my other works. (No matter how cringey) those I derive inspiration from my daily experiences mostly heartbreak/relationships/depression/substance abuse I am not very good at writing happy poems I try about nature and other positive subjects but they lack the raw talent and depth of my darker poetry." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Amanda: "Poetry for me has a very loose definition I have crafted everyday conversations into poems before for instance. I also believe some experiences in life can be considered poetry or at least equates to it in some manner such as making love or the setting sun if that makes any sense to anyone besides me." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Amanda: "My favorite poets are Dorothy Parker, Ogden Nash, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Leonard Cohen, and Eminem who is in my opinion the greatest poet of our generation by far. After all, rap stands for 'rhythm and poetry'." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Amanda: "My other interests are art such as coloring, painting, and I recently received a pottery wheel that I haven't tried out yet. Music is also a huge part of my life, I love writing lyrics to instrumentals, listening to different artists to broaden my tastes, or just singing along to old favorites. I have also recently gotten into online gambling such as slots and blackjack." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, Amanda! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Amanda a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #7 in September! ~
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Aug 1, 2023
Aug 1, 2023 at 2:00 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Amanda Kay Burke
~ August 2023 HP Poet: Amanda Kay Burke Country: USA Question 1: We welcome you to the HP Spotlight, Amanda. Please tell us about your background? Amanda: "It just so happens my HP handle is my actual full name. When I originally signed up on this site it was wordybirdy333 but a friend of mine suggested my real name would seem more professional and I was inclined to agree so Amanda Kay Burke it's been ever since. I am 28 years old physically but will forever be a kid at heart. And I was born and raised in the US; Alaska more specifically. I have to admit I haven't accomplished a whole lot yet in my life, seeing as how I suffer from recurring depression/addiction problems. Which is probably an excuse, but hey everyone has their issues. I have lived in a small town called Willow, AK basically my whole life; I have only been out of state one time (that I remember) but I would love to travel and see the world one day. My mother passed away last year so since then I have been keeping my dad company trying to provide whatever emotional support I am able to. I have a Chihuahua named Mocha and she is my best friend and one of my only friends these days but the few people I do hold close to my heart make my life worthwhile." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Amanda: "I have been writing poetry since I was just a kid, probably nine or ten years old, but I remember being eleven when I wrote the first poem that I knew was actually good. I have been a member of HP since April 2017 so that makes six years now huh? Wow time flies..." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Amanda: "Patty m described it perfectly when she said that it feels like they write themselves at least the truly superb pieces do. I don't know where the words come from sometimes they just flow from the pen and when I'm done I read it over and get goosebumps because I can't believe that it came from my hand/brain. But the majority take a lot of effort. I like to challenge myself to always keep writing when I can, even when I have writers block and don't approve of the result. And I always post it eventually just to compare against my other works. (No matter how cringey) those I derive inspiration from my daily experiences mostly heartbreak/relationships/depression/substance abuse I am not very good at writing happy poems I try about nature and other positive subjects but they lack the raw talent and depth of my darker poetry." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Amanda: "Poetry for me has a very loose definition I have crafted everyday conversations into poems before for instance. I also believe some experiences in life can be considered poetry or at least equates to it in some manner such as making love or the setting sun if that makes any sense to anyone besides me." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Amanda: "My favorite poets are Dorothy Parker, Ogden Nash, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Leonard Cohen, and Eminem who is in my opinion the greatest poet of our generation by far. After all, rap stands for 'rhythm and poetry'." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Amanda: "My other interests are art such as coloring, painting, and I recently received a pottery wheel that I haven't tried out yet. Music is also a huge part of my life, I love writing lyrics to instrumentals, listening to different artists to broaden my tastes, or just singing along to old favorites. I have also recently gotten into online gambling such as slots and blackjack." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for giving us an opportunity to get to know you, Amanda! You are a wonderful addition to the series!” Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Amanda a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #7 in September! ~
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It’s a firework holiday, so let’s light up the night, wave the stars and stripes, eat barbecue and drink bud light. We’ll celebrate the liberties that SCOTUS says we’ve got it appears they’ve all been bought and before their terms are over they’ll resurrect Dred Scott. Watermelon, hot wings we’ve even added new things, like smash & grab lootings and frequent, random shootings. Some Republicans want to break away to form a less perfect union can you form a successful nation based on the politics of illusion? There used to be parades I’m told, that featured local things, like firefighting brigades I guess we’re just to fractured now, to sashay in such displays. I bet those were the days.
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Jul 4, 2023
Jul 4, 2023 at 12:21 PM UTC
the 4th
~ July 2023 HP Poet: N (Neville Pettitt) Country: UK Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Neville. Please tell us about your background? N: "Although I currently post my little scribbles here under the initial N, I once used to sign myself off with my full first name which is Neville and in fact, I may well do so again .. For anyone interested, my full pen name is Neville Pettitt and it is only after much deliberation that have I decided to reveal it here today .. My birth name is different .. The reason for my caution is entirely due to my line of work .. I am employed as a clinical specialist in adult psychiatry, with special interests in substance misuse, personality disorder and clinical risk management .. Consequently, from time to time I may be called upon by the Coroner, local Mental Health Trusts, or very occasionally the police dept, to conduct in depth investigations into serious adverse events for example, murders and or suicides .. I hope the reason for my transparency becomes clearer as you read on (that is, assuming anyone actually does read on) .. I studied at both Middlesex & Hertfordshire universities and have occasionally served as a volunteer in psychiatric facilities overseas .. The longest was a few years ago at Tanka Tanka Hospital in West Africa the Gambia and Senegal to be precise where I managed to last just under six months .. I am as old as my tongue and a little older than my teeth, I was born and currently live in a beautiful part of England by the sea in the county of Somerset and in an old converted Banked Barn that dates back to 1547 .. I know I am very lucky .. I have two grown children .. My daughter heads up the hepatology department at a local hospital and my son has his own business .. My wife was previously a partner at a General Practice .. In 1995 I registered as a Kongo Zen Buddhist and am also a black belt student of Shorinji Kempo which I also used to teach .. " Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? N: "I guess I have been writing poetry for the best part of my life to date, certainly from around ten or eleven and I have been posting here at ‘Hello Poetry’ for around three years or thereabouts .. " Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). N: "When asked what inspires me, I often find myself lost for words because there are so many things, I love nature, people generally, travelling, my work occasionally and those I encounter during the course of just being .. There’s probably not a lot that I have not been inspired to write about at some time or other .. Relationships of course do tend to feature a lot, as do both losses and gains of various kinds .. My lovely parents, now both deceased were also a great source of inspiration too .. I would be lieing if I denied getting pleasure from writing .. I get a great deal of pleasure from it .. and I enjoy trying to give others pleasure too .. Sometimes my muse deserts me for a while and I get those dreaded blank page days but always carry a pen and notepad around just in case something tickles my fancy or I get one of those light bulb moments .. " Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? N: *"As already mentioned, poetry in many of its various forms has been a major part of my life, if not a friend and comfort for almost as long as I can remember .. I also use it as a means of expressing my self and communicating with others .. However, in the last five or six years, I have been publishing anthologies in order to raise money for each of my chosen charities .. Mental Health of course features, but also for Breast cancer since my wife had this .. More recently however, Brain Tumour research has been included following the death of my sister in law and my little niece developing a similar brain tumour too at age four years .. I currently have eight books/anthologies of poetry in print which are available almost anywhere on the planet from Amazon .. and these are listed in chronological order below a ninth is due out in early 2024 and called A Handful of Ghosts and a Woman in Blue .. a bit of a mouthful I know, but it features an old image of my wife on the cover .. Turquoise & Other Shades of Blue Somewhere Behind These Eyes Victims of Indifference Beautiful Bruises The Logic of Fools Cotton Girls & Paper Chains Chasing Light Slaves of Eros"* Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? N: "My favourite poets are Leonard Cohen whom I kind of grew up with and who incidentally once wrote to me twice in fact .. or to be absolutely correct, the first time, he answered one of my letters to him .. I am also a fan of the late great Sylvia Plath, Charles Bukowski and oh’ so many others both classical and more modern .. " Question 6: What other interests do you have? N: "Other interests include travelling in particular foreign travel, dining in and eating out, gardening painting and drawing when I have time .. (hardly ever these days) I still practice zazen as per Kongo zen and I enjoy reading and listening to music .. " Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for taking part in this series, my friend! You have truly enlightened us about yourself.” N: "Finally, I would just like to say what a real and great honour and a privilege it was to be asked to post a little about myself here on this mighty fine poetry site and to express my very sincere thanks to anyone that follows me or reads just one of my works .. Many thanks to one and all .. Peace, Love & All Good Things, Neville" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed Neville's story. For certain I have. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #6 in August! ~
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Jul 1, 2023
Jul 1, 2023 at 3:39 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: N
~ July 2023 HP Poet: N (Neville Pettitt) Country: UK Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Neville. Please tell us about your background? N: "Although I currently post my little scribbles here under the initial N, I once used to sign myself off with my full first name which is Neville and in fact, I may well do so again .. For anyone interested, my full pen name is Neville Pettitt and it is only after much deliberation that have I decided to reveal it here today .. My birth name is different .. The reason for my caution is entirely due to my line of work .. I am employed as a clinical specialist in adult psychiatry, with special interests in substance misuse, personality disorder and clinical risk management .. Consequently, from time to time I may be called upon by the Coroner, local Mental Health Trusts, or very occasionally the police dept, to conduct in depth investigations into serious adverse events for example, murders and or suicides .. I hope the reason for my transparency becomes clearer as you read on (that is, assuming anyone actually does read on) .. I studied at both Middlesex & Hertfordshire universities and have occasionally served as a volunteer in psychiatric facilities overseas .. The longest was a few years ago at Tanka Tanka Hospital in West Africa the Gambia and Senegal to be precise where I managed to last just under six months .. I am as old as my tongue and a little older than my teeth, I was born and currently live in a beautiful part of England by the sea in the county of Somerset and in an old converted Banked Barn that dates back to 1547 .. I know I am very lucky .. I have two grown children .. My daughter heads up the hepatology department at a local hospital and my son has his own business .. My wife was previously a partner at a General Practice .. In 1995 I registered as a Kongo Zen Buddhist and am also a black belt student of Shorinji Kempo which I also used to teach .. " Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? N: "I guess I have been writing poetry for the best part of my life to date, certainly from around ten or eleven and I have been posting here at ‘Hello Poetry’ for around three years or thereabouts .. " Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). N: "When asked what inspires me, I often find myself lost for words because there are so many things, I love nature, people generally, travelling, my work occasionally and those I encounter during the course of just being .. There’s probably not a lot that I have not been inspired to write about at some time or other .. Relationships of course do tend to feature a lot, as do both losses and gains of various kinds .. My lovely parents, now both deceased were also a great source of inspiration too .. I would be lieing if I denied getting pleasure from writing .. I get a great deal of pleasure from it .. and I enjoy trying to give others pleasure too .. Sometimes my muse deserts me for a while and I get those dreaded blank page days but always carry a pen and notepad around just in case something tickles my fancy or I get one of those light bulb moments .. " Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? N: *"As already mentioned, poetry in many of its various forms has been a major part of my life, if not a friend and comfort for almost as long as I can remember .. I also use it as a means of expressing my self and communicating with others .. However, in the last five or six years, I have been publishing anthologies in order to raise money for each of my chosen charities .. Mental Health of course features, but also for Breast cancer since my wife had this .. More recently however, Brain Tumour research has been included following the death of my sister in law and my little niece developing a similar brain tumour too at age four years .. I currently have eight books/anthologies of poetry in print which are available almost anywhere on the planet from Amazon .. and these are listed in chronological order below a ninth is due out in early 2024 and called A Handful of Ghosts and a Woman in Blue .. a bit of a mouthful I know, but it features an old image of my wife on the cover .. Turquoise & Other Shades of Blue Somewhere Behind These Eyes Victims of Indifference Beautiful Bruises The Logic of Fools Cotton Girls & Paper Chains Chasing Light Slaves of Eros"* Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? N: "My favourite poets are Leonard Cohen whom I kind of grew up with and who incidentally once wrote to me twice in fact .. or to be absolutely correct, the first time, he answered one of my letters to him .. I am also a fan of the late great Sylvia Plath, Charles Bukowski and oh’ so many others both classical and more modern .. " Question 6: What other interests do you have? N: "Other interests include travelling in particular foreign travel, dining in and eating out, gardening painting and drawing when I have time .. (hardly ever these days) I still practice zazen as per Kongo zen and I enjoy reading and listening to music .. " Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for taking part in this series, my friend! You have truly enlightened us about yourself.” N: "Finally, I would just like to say what a real and great honour and a privilege it was to be asked to post a little about myself here on this mighty fine poetry site and to express my very sincere thanks to anyone that follows me or reads just one of my works .. Many thanks to one and all .. Peace, Love & All Good Things, Neville" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed Neville's story. For certain I have. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #6 in August! ~
Continue reading...
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~ June 2023 HP Poet: Patty Mager Country: USA Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Patty. Please tell us about your background? Patty M: "I was born an only child in a 3 generation household. I loved books, and playing imaginary games, and chasing my mom with really long nightcrawlers, my Grandpa raised in a washtub. I was a banker, and a financial banker for many years. I quit to do hospice for my Dad when he was to go into hospice. My husband had heart problems and my little Mom eventually got Cancer. So I nursed and loved them all. My Dad for a year, the others over an 8-year period. I saw the transition of each and the way each handled their ending, and I was there for them all. I consider that a special blessing." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Patty M: "I always wrote, but I found a poetry site 20 years ago, and began to write seriously. I've been published in many anthologies both in the US and abroad. I was nominated for the coveted Pushcart Prize twice and I once had a three-page spread in our local newspaper. I came to HP in 2014 and I love this special place with amazingly wonderful poets who have become really great friends." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Patty M: "Sometimes poems seem to write themselves, almost like automatic writing." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Patty M: "Poetry is spiritual, and a lifesaving rope that carries me through both good and the horrible times of my life." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Patty M: "My favorite Poets are: Sylvia Plath, Neruda, Billy Collins, Maya Angelou, Poe, Ginsberg, Anne Sexton, and Longfellow." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Patty M: "I love to cook, do crossword puzzles, read, and play card games like canasta, and spider solitaire. Being with family is my heaven." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, dear Patty! I learned a great deal about you!” Patty M: "Thank again Carlo. Thanks so much for all your help and kindness." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Patty a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #5 in July! ~
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Jun 1, 2023
Jun 1, 2023 at 5:56 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Patty M
~ June 2023 HP Poet: Patty Mager Country: USA Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Patty. Please tell us about your background? Patty M: "I was born an only child in a 3 generation household. I loved books, and playing imaginary games, and chasing my mom with really long nightcrawlers, my Grandpa raised in a washtub. I was a banker, and a financial banker for many years. I quit to do hospice for my Dad when he was to go into hospice. My husband had heart problems and my little Mom eventually got Cancer. So I nursed and loved them all. My Dad for a year, the others over an 8-year period. I saw the transition of each and the way each handled their ending, and I was there for them all. I consider that a special blessing." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Patty M: "I always wrote, but I found a poetry site 20 years ago, and began to write seriously. I've been published in many anthologies both in the US and abroad. I was nominated for the coveted Pushcart Prize twice and I once had a three-page spread in our local newspaper. I came to HP in 2014 and I love this special place with amazingly wonderful poets who have become really great friends." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Patty M: "Sometimes poems seem to write themselves, almost like automatic writing." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Patty M: "Poetry is spiritual, and a lifesaving rope that carries me through both good and the horrible times of my life." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Patty M: "My favorite Poets are: Sylvia Plath, Neruda, Billy Collins, Maya Angelou, Poe, Ginsberg, Anne Sexton, and Longfellow." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Patty M: "I love to cook, do crossword puzzles, read, and play card games like canasta, and spider solitaire. Being with family is my heaven." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, dear Patty! I learned a great deal about you!” Patty M: "Thank again Carlo. Thanks so much for all your help and kindness." Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Patty a little bit better. I indeed did. It is our wish that these spotlights are helping everyone to further discover and appreciate their fellow poets. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #5 in July! ~
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"I'LL BE IN HIGH SCHOOL FOREVER" I scream My friends have moved on from my early death At the age of seventeen My graduation dress was a dream; Never sewn, only glimpsed, never seen. Buy me a cassette, Buy me a carousel -Hold me close ma, hold me closer- Buy me some time and a jet and I'll leave. I won't pretend to be so mean. I wouldn't pretend to be so mean.
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May 25, 2023
May 25, 2023 at 6:29 PM UTC
Class of '23
Shame on me Shame on me for not pushing the label further. Shame on me for not recognizing your true colors. Shame on me for being deceived by your continuous empty promises. Shame on me for ignoring the endless trail of red flags. Shame on me for embracing your abuse with open arms. Shame on me for accepting your disrespect. Shame on me for allowing you to destroy the tenacious woman I am. Shame on me
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May 23, 2023
May 23, 2023 at 10:23 AM UTC
Shame On Me
~ May 2023 HP Poet: Edmund Black Age: 39 (almost) Country: USA Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Edmund. Tell us about your background? Edmund Black: "My real name is Merlin Edmund (Black) cause I believe in magic and besides, it matches my cool ;). I was born in Port Aux Prince, Haiti. I moved to the United States when I was 11 years old and I’ve been living in New Jersey ever since. Seems like here on Hello poetry I’m stuck on 34, like I'm frozen in time alongside error 502, but I’ll be 39 years young this year on May 6. But please don’t tell anyone ;) lol." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Edmund Black: "I wrote my first poem (ever) here on HP called Caribbean love, back in 2018, and I have been a member since. I wrote that poem after I returned from a missionary trip back home in Haiti, after I witnessed so much poverty on such a small island. And I wanted to write about all the suffering, the poverty and the beauty. At first I was afraid, I was scared because I didn’t know how people would take to me. But there was a piece of me that wanted to come out, wanted to be free, and to learn, to help others find their own Joy, gratefulness, peace and humility? I started writing to encourage myself and many others. The truth forever remains that we're all brothers and sisters. I wanted to sprinkle some love and hope around the world, seasoned with a little bit of madness." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Edmund Black: "I guess every writer is inspired by different things, for me I get inspired by all the little things I experience on a daily basis. I get inspired by hatred, poverty, love, music, nature, grief, etc. I get inspired when I'm desperately searching for a life in a happier world. When I feel the desire to remind myself and others that we're all the same. Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them. Darks and lights in them. Part earth and sea, wind and fire. We have a universe within ourselves. We all can shine in the midst of dark moments and we have got to remember that, no matter the weight." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Edmund Black: "Have you ever met someone that makes you happy and smile, just from being around them? They make you feel good just from their laughter. They make you feel like all the problems or negativity that you may be facing during your daily activities, means nothing. They make you realize that it’s okay to make mistakes and still find ways to make things better. This might sound insane, but that’s poetry to me. It's healing, it's cathartic, it brings out strength from within. Trust me, you can write about anything and still come out with a win. Poetry is an avenue that lets you be free while holding the memory of the world in the palm of its hands." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Edmund Black: "I think my answer is going to shock you, Carlo. I DO NOT HAVE A FAVORITE WRITER OR POET besides you guys here on HP. But If I had to pick one famous poet, if it’s a must it would have to be Jesus Christ. He was a brilliant poet who had his work of art on every mind and heart in the world. His expression, His poems, His delivery and the depth of His thoughts. The poems are so relatable and beautiful. His words are addictive. Every time I am a little bit depressed and in need of a lift upon high, He is the first and only one that always comes to mind. He’s my inspiration…… Without question." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Edmund Black: "I love spending time in nature with my family; creating art in the backyard whenever I get a chance. Weight lifting and bicycling are two of my favorite hobbies, and plus I'm a foodie so I'm very passionate about my cooking ;) especially fresh seafood, hmmm so so so good. And lastly, I have a great enjoyment in fixing old houses and turning them into a home for families to enjoy for years to come, for a small fee ;) to me it’s a form of art. It’s a busy lifestyle." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, Edmund! I really enjoyed getting to know you better!” Edmund Black: "Thank you so much Carlo and to everyone who has ever shown me love, support, encouragement, forgiveness, concern...at any point in my life. Your grace, compassion, and mercy does not go unnoticed. I love you all. Be gentle with each other my dear poet brothers and sisters. To all writers and poets, don’t boo yourself off the stage before anyone has a chance to see you shine. Keep dreaming and your visions alive because without us the world would be empty, sad and without a sound. Let’s create joy for hope and hope for humanity……I am all gratitude Carlo and family, thank you 🙏🏽" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Edmund a little bit better. I know I did. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #4 in June! ~
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May 3, 2023
May 3, 2023 at 11:59 AM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Edmund Black
~ May 2023 HP Poet: Edmund Black Age: 39 (almost) Country: USA Question 1: Welcome to the HP Spotlight, Edmund. Tell us about your background? Edmund Black: "My real name is Merlin Edmund (Black) cause I believe in magic and besides, it matches my cool ;). I was born in Port Aux Prince, Haiti. I moved to the United States when I was 11 years old and I’ve been living in New Jersey ever since. Seems like here on Hello poetry I’m stuck on 34, like I'm frozen in time alongside error 502, but I’ll be 39 years young this year on May 6. But please don’t tell anyone ;) lol." Question 2: How long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Edmund Black: "I wrote my first poem (ever) here on HP called Caribbean love, back in 2018, and I have been a member since. I wrote that poem after I returned from a missionary trip back home in Haiti, after I witnessed so much poverty on such a small island. And I wanted to write about all the suffering, the poverty and the beauty. At first I was afraid, I was scared because I didn’t know how people would take to me. But there was a piece of me that wanted to come out, wanted to be free, and to learn, to help others find their own Joy, gratefulness, peace and humility? I started writing to encourage myself and many others. The truth forever remains that we're all brothers and sisters. I wanted to sprinkle some love and hope around the world, seasoned with a little bit of madness." Question 3: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Edmund Black: "I guess every writer is inspired by different things, for me I get inspired by all the little things I experience on a daily basis. I get inspired by hatred, poverty, love, music, nature, grief, etc. I get inspired when I'm desperately searching for a life in a happier world. When I feel the desire to remind myself and others that we're all the same. Everybody has a little bit of the sun and moon in them. Darks and lights in them. Part earth and sea, wind and fire. We have a universe within ourselves. We all can shine in the midst of dark moments and we have got to remember that, no matter the weight." Question 4: What does poetry mean to you? Edmund Black: "Have you ever met someone that makes you happy and smile, just from being around them? They make you feel good just from their laughter. They make you feel like all the problems or negativity that you may be facing during your daily activities, means nothing. They make you realize that it’s okay to make mistakes and still find ways to make things better. This might sound insane, but that’s poetry to me. It's healing, it's cathartic, it brings out strength from within. Trust me, you can write about anything and still come out with a win. Poetry is an avenue that lets you be free while holding the memory of the world in the palm of its hands." Question 5: Who are your favorite poets? Edmund Black: "I think my answer is going to shock you, Carlo. I DO NOT HAVE A FAVORITE WRITER OR POET besides you guys here on HP. But If I had to pick one famous poet, if it’s a must it would have to be Jesus Christ. He was a brilliant poet who had his work of art on every mind and heart in the world. His expression, His poems, His delivery and the depth of His thoughts. The poems are so relatable and beautiful. His words are addictive. Every time I am a little bit depressed and in need of a lift upon high, He is the first and only one that always comes to mind. He’s my inspiration…… Without question." Question 6: What other interests do you have? Edmund Black: "I love spending time in nature with my family; creating art in the backyard whenever I get a chance. Weight lifting and bicycling are two of my favorite hobbies, and plus I'm a foodie so I'm very passionate about my cooking ;) especially fresh seafood, hmmm so so so good. And lastly, I have a great enjoyment in fixing old houses and turning them into a home for families to enjoy for years to come, for a small fee ;) to me it’s a form of art. It’s a busy lifestyle." Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, Edmund! I really enjoyed getting to know you better!” Edmund Black: "Thank you so much Carlo and to everyone who has ever shown me love, support, encouragement, forgiveness, concern...at any point in my life. Your grace, compassion, and mercy does not go unnoticed. I love you all. Be gentle with each other my dear poet brothers and sisters. To all writers and poets, don’t boo yourself off the stage before anyone has a chance to see you shine. Keep dreaming and your visions alive because without us the world would be empty, sad and without a sound. Let’s create joy for hope and hope for humanity……I am all gratitude Carlo and family, thank you 🙏🏽" Thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Edmund a little bit better. I know I did. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #4 in June! ~
Continue reading...
22
Useless Useless Useless at the moment that changes you know, the comfort, fortified state set solid, being not right is not possible, in the comfort zone, under the turban that marks the wedom of the war fighting class, called of Wisdom to comfort the feeble minded, offering hope in song and story told to hold what you call precious, use the price to measure contained worth. Is the song the value, or the tune? What is the use worth, if words change things? Words worth thinking to the emergent first blurted line, left brain stored comparison of constancy, April, not the cruelest month, but a named child result, from a moment one July. Freckles on creamy skin under wild ***** hair. I saw her like, her spirit and image, in the Welfare Office on First Street, in El Cajon. Freckled creamy skin wrinkled deep laugh lines, under wild ***** hair, there she was from another bubble, but there she was. Not April, but she was so like such models of wombed men seem, potentially overpowering royal we user, we became friends, but the April I knew grew old elsewhere.
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Apr 6, 2023
Apr 6, 2023 at 3:15 PM UTC
April is not cruel this year
Woman, thy nastiness to me Is like old Nikes on the floor Where sweat and mildew disagree And force me to the nearest door A stench I can't ignore. Your heart weighs less than styrofoam, Thy stinking feet, thy scowling face, Belong in some state nursing home . . . Free me up some breathing space, You mean-hair clipped-face gnome. Lo, in yon dark recliner-chair How meatloaf-like I see thee slump, Upon your wide immobile **** Ah! Harpie of the greasy hair Unholy Frump!
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Apr 3, 2023
Apr 3, 2023 at 6:23 PM UTC
To that Thing
~ April 2023 HP Poet: Sarita Aditya Verma Age: 47 Country: India Question 1: We are so happy you could be a part of this, Sarita. Tell us how long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Sarita Aditya Verma: "I have been writing for the last six years (19th October 2016), that was the first time ever I wrote to express myself. I have been a member and have posting here at Hello Poetry since December 2016. This is the only place where I share my words, sometimes a copy of the same with friends who are willing to read. Hello Poetry has been my sacred space, I feel blessed to be here." Question 2: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Sarita Aditya Verma: "Nature has inspired me forever, be it rain, sunshine, trees or the blooming flowers. The length and breadth of vivid times and emotions. I usually write about the experiences in life, as I lightly observe around. Sometimes it could be a photograph, a painting or even my morning walk. In general, the geometry of life and the rainbow that shines. That’s how poetry happens to me." Question 3: What does poetry mean to you? Sarita Aditya Verma: "Poetry is one of the best experiences in my life. It has given me a sense of belonging, a space which is totally mine, brought in a lot of clarity, and words have set me free. 'Sometimes poetry, mostly life, unwritten quotes destiny shall write'- is what I believe in." Question 4: Who are your favorite poets? Sarita Aditya Verma: "I have been a science student, and haven’t had much exposure to literature/poetry in my graduation years. So it would be unfair to quote any of the greats here! Robert Frost and Mark Twain are the ones whose works I have enjoyed reading in school. The rest, most of my reading and learning experience, has been at Hello Poetry - from the many great poets and poetesses who share their wonderful work here, and I am grateful for that." Question 5: What other interests do you have? Sarita Aditya Verma: "One of my other interests is photography, I love the geometry of the subject- it’s all about angles and curves, and right moments to capture. I am drawn to nature and street photography. I am still into the process of exploring and acquiring the skills. I also enjoy listening to upbeat music :)" Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much, Sarita! We are really excited to add you to this spotlight series.” Sarita Aditya Verma: "Thank you so much Carlo, for interviewing me here. I truly enjoyed the questions and am eager to know about and read from other contributors at Hello Poetry :)" Again thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Sarita a little bit better. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #3 in May! ~
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Apr 3, 2023
Apr 3, 2023 at 8:09 AM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Sarita Aditya Verma
~ April 2023 HP Poet: Sarita Aditya Verma Age: 47 Country: India Question 1: We are so happy you could be a part of this, Sarita. Tell us how long have you been writing poetry, and for how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Sarita Aditya Verma: "I have been writing for the last six years (19th October 2016), that was the first time ever I wrote to express myself. I have been a member and have posting here at Hello Poetry since December 2016. This is the only place where I share my words, sometimes a copy of the same with friends who are willing to read. Hello Poetry has been my sacred space, I feel blessed to be here." Question 2: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Sarita Aditya Verma: "Nature has inspired me forever, be it rain, sunshine, trees or the blooming flowers. The length and breadth of vivid times and emotions. I usually write about the experiences in life, as I lightly observe around. Sometimes it could be a photograph, a painting or even my morning walk. In general, the geometry of life and the rainbow that shines. That’s how poetry happens to me." Question 3: What does poetry mean to you? Sarita Aditya Verma: "Poetry is one of the best experiences in my life. It has given me a sense of belonging, a space which is totally mine, brought in a lot of clarity, and words have set me free. 'Sometimes poetry, mostly life, unwritten quotes destiny shall write'- is what I believe in." Question 4: Who are your favorite poets? Sarita Aditya Verma: "I have been a science student, and haven’t had much exposure to literature/poetry in my graduation years. So it would be unfair to quote any of the greats here! Robert Frost and Mark Twain are the ones whose works I have enjoyed reading in school. The rest, most of my reading and learning experience, has been at Hello Poetry - from the many great poets and poetesses who share their wonderful work here, and I am grateful for that." Question 5: What other interests do you have? Sarita Aditya Verma: "One of my other interests is photography, I love the geometry of the subject- it’s all about angles and curves, and right moments to capture. I am drawn to nature and street photography. I am still into the process of exploring and acquiring the skills. I also enjoy listening to upbeat music :)" Carlo C. Gomez: “Thank you so much, Sarita! We are really excited to add you to this spotlight series.” Sarita Aditya Verma: "Thank you so much Carlo, for interviewing me here. I truly enjoyed the questions and am eager to know about and read from other contributors at Hello Poetry :)" Again thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Sarita a little bit better. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #3 in May! ~
Continue reading...
21
Here On Measured Eternities
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Mar 23, 2023
Mar 23, 2023 at 1:23 AM UTC
HOME
~ March 2023 HP Poet: Thomas W. Case Age: 53 Country: USA Question 1: We are very happy to have you participate, Thomas. So how long have you been writing poetry, and how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Thomas W. Case: “I've been writing poetry since I was 16, and I've been a member of hello poetry for 3 years.” Question 2: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Thomas W. Case: “The things that inspire me to write are life: the good, the bad, the ugly. Emotion inspires me to write. Poems come to me in many different ways. Sometimes in pictures, sometimes a word will pop into my head and I will write around it. And sometimes a situation in my life will transpire and I will write to process it.” Question 3: What does poetry mean to you? Thomas W. Case: “Poetry is cathartic for me. It's a lifesaver, it gives me a unique perspective on the world, it helps me to make sense of life. Poetry is my highway through the madness.” Question 4: Who are your favorite poets? Thomas W. Case: “Charles Bukowski, Pablo Neruda, Dylan Thomas, and W.B. Yeats.” Question 5: What other interests do you have? Thomas W. Case: “Writing short stories, reading, and spending time with my kids.” Mr. Timetable: “Thank you so much, Thomas! We really appreciate your willingness to be the first one to be spotlighted.” Thomas W. Case: “Thank you, man. I look forward to seeing the post and how it turns out.” And thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Thomas a little bit better. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #2 in April! ~
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Mar 14, 2023
Mar 14, 2023 at 7:50 PM UTC
HP Writers Spotlight: Thomas W. Case
~ March 2023 HP Poet: Thomas W. Case Age: 53 Country: USA Question 1: We are very happy to have you participate, Thomas. So how long have you been writing poetry, and how long have you been a member of Hello Poetry? Thomas W. Case: “I've been writing poetry since I was 16, and I've been a member of hello poetry for 3 years.” Question 2: What inspires you? (In other words, how does poetry happen for you). Thomas W. Case: “The things that inspire me to write are life: the good, the bad, the ugly. Emotion inspires me to write. Poems come to me in many different ways. Sometimes in pictures, sometimes a word will pop into my head and I will write around it. And sometimes a situation in my life will transpire and I will write to process it.” Question 3: What does poetry mean to you? Thomas W. Case: “Poetry is cathartic for me. It's a lifesaver, it gives me a unique perspective on the world, it helps me to make sense of life. Poetry is my highway through the madness.” Question 4: Who are your favorite poets? Thomas W. Case: “Charles Bukowski, Pablo Neruda, Dylan Thomas, and W.B. Yeats.” Question 5: What other interests do you have? Thomas W. Case: “Writing short stories, reading, and spending time with my kids.” Mr. Timetable: “Thank you so much, Thomas! We really appreciate your willingness to be the first one to be spotlighted.” Thomas W. Case: “Thank you, man. I look forward to seeing the post and how it turns out.” And thank you everyone here at HP for taking the time to read this. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Thomas a little bit better. – Carlo C. Gomez (aka Mr. Timetable) We will post Spotlight #2 in April! ~
Continue reading...
21
#* Holi It is an emotion Sung upon the winds Youthful songs of spring Vivacious emeralds Colours of the shade, Jade Fields of verdant green Mother earth bestows Upon us her finest hues Let’s embrace in gratitude Reverently we circumambulate The Holika, seeking felicity Quelling the evil and granting peace Imbued with the crimson Under the blue skies of eternity May the festival bring mirth And lasting harmony*#
0
Mar 6, 2023
Mar 6, 2023 at 11:19 AM UTC
Happy Holi
*** *** 𓆩⟡𓆪 Swathed in my caution I search to find my daring Fire cracks my egg 𓆩⟡𓆪 I've been long since lost Colours of the creative Dulled by daily trudge 𓆩⟡𓆪 I hear the wind call Fearing the might of my wings Fall before I fly 𓆩⟡𓆪 *** ***
0
Jan 31, 2023
Jan 31, 2023 at 6:07 PM UTC
Nexus
I love God, but I know fruits do not increase rapidly. Growth takes decades. God's love tugs at my center to become; a lifelong progressive journey of changing towards glory, light with no shades. The acceptance within grace is often overlooked and belittled in this vague sense of tolerance. Like Sheryl Ralph and Jennifer Lewis said, look into the mirror and speak love over your whole body. You are to love what's challenging to approach within the self. See- observe- with the same soft gaze you give to children and elders.         Celebrate what you can do. Celebrate what you can't. Growth within decades. I love God, and I know fruit does not increase when rushed.
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Jan 18, 2023
Jan 18, 2023 at 11:58 PM UTC
001. RPR, Love