A. R. Gurney, ‘Love Letters’ (Short Story) - 3/23/2026 9:27:23 AM
True for me. I've always written. But I've always written within the lines, perhaps restricting me.
I never doodled on my notes, but I always liked to sketch and draw. Became an expert drafter before I could no more. But I still remember making posters for parties that I held with an image of my hillside cottage sketched on it. I made multiple copies and then, colored them, to post and hand out so that people could come if they wanted to. Have even done some of my book covers, too.
But whenever I write with my voice I'm in my own little world like A R Gurney described, closing everything out–my aches and pains, even all other thoughts, focused at the task at hand until it's over.
Ron
A. R. Gurney, ‘Love Letters’ (Short Story) - 3/22/2026 4:02:32 PM
A lovely reminder, Diane. Your words capture the simple truth that writing keeps us alive to ourselves and to one another. There’s something deeply human in the act of putting pen to paper, and you honor that beautifully here.
A. R. Gurney, ‘Love Letters’ (Short Story) - 3/21/2026 2:06:24 PM
Succinct but very broad in its umbrella of truth. It continues to sadden me that so much of writing, especially with young people, is relegated to sbreviated text and memes. Like the article shares with us, writing, that very alone place of solitude and peace, the pen, the pencil, the keyboard all share the essence of communication: the projection of words, whole words, whole paragraphs, et al. The last line is so pertinent: "it's not a telephone call, which is dead as soon as it's over." This is such a reality, perhaps only writers can wholeheartedly understand and cherish. Thank you for posting such a wake-up call for the many who sadly will only be read by a few. A definite addition to my reflection chest.
Do You Hear The People Sing? (Short Story) - 5/26/2025 1:55:02 PM
Going to look for a replay. Missed it today. I did, however, commemorate my own way this morning with watching the Netflix documentary on the manhunt for Osama. Good depiction.
Solitude (Short Story) - 5/25/2025 8:04:08 AM
You've chosen to share intense and valuable thoughts of remaining a survivor with victory realization as she takes the chance of soloship. It works. I know. I've experienced much of it myself. Wrote a poem on it that you reviewed, "Silence Ringing." Both of us have written on this subject and, as the rate of feeling abandoned and left behind--fostered in part by social media--one it left hoping more will suck it up and delve into the wonderful company of oneself. Such a gift and reward is available to any and all who have erradicated the sense of victim from their state of mind. Thank you for posting.
Solitude (Short Story) - 5/25/2025 7:39:16 AM
I have tears in my eyes as I am typing this. We are indeed soul sisters. Maybe one of these days we can talk on the phone and share stories. You are an amazing writer and have become somewhat of an unintentional mentor who pushes me to do better with my own pen. ((Hugs))
Solitude (Short Story) - 5/25/2025 7:27:42 AM
Absolutely loved this. Thank you for sharing and making it available to perhaps a wider audience. I am sure so many people can relate to this, especially the elderly. I know I did.
C. S. Lewis Book (Short Story) - 5/25/2025 2:55:52 AM
After the passing of my husband some years ago, I read ‘A Grief Observed’. For me on an entirely personal level I found it extremely depressing and challenging to read…
I think CS Lewis’s own life suffering and loss, and earlier grief plus the circumstances of his relationship with Joy at different times in his relationship with her, could possibly have influenced his reactions to her death, as outlined in this work…which is fine and his artistic right, but I feel if it is regarded as the ‘average’ reaction to the death of a loved one, it may trouble some who read his words and experiences..it troubled me for one…especially at these times in our lives we are extremely vulnerable..However, I went on to read other accounts, and along with my own experiences found for myself a place of authenticity and eventual personal peace, on this lifelong journey..To quote Lewis..”What you see and what you hear depends a great deal on where you are standing”…if it is viewed entirely on its own merits, then it can be seen as you say something to be ‘witnessed and honoured’…as his purely personal experience…
My best wishes always..
Diana…🌿 (the other)
C. S. Lewis Book (Short Story) - 4/23/2025 10:46:20 AM
Familiar with C S Lewis but not familiar with the books mentioned. Indeed, the topic of grief (which I have written about as well in my poems) is not only a serious one, but a profoundly troubling experience that need to be reconciled. Your highlighting the concept in this way is most enlightening. Thank you.
The Slap-Kiss of Life (Short Story) - 4/4/2025 2:38:15 PM
You have a way of painting a word picture that is outstanding to my eyes and ears. Reads like neurological pain that can be physical or can be generated by the good old brain itself in its agony to try to find a way to sleep.
While I have this slow dying and atrophy of my legs to tell me that they are not going to let me sleep at night, especially if no one takes attention to those toes persistently growing in, that does not keep me awake when exhaustion overcomes it so easily.
It is a little itching stinging and pain in the face that I feel that keeps me from just causing my eyes and floating off to another erotic dream.
Unfortunately, unlike you who could get up, perhaps run around the block to work up a sweat and thereby be exhausted enough to sleep, I require someone just to turn me in bed so that my body and blood does not coagulate Page downimmobile even if I wanted to run away like the wind.
Thanks for reminding me of what my bad nights are like. Thankfully, they are a few.
Ron
The Slap-Kiss of Life (Short Story) - 4/1/2025 1:39:17 PM
There is such elegance in the choice of words, descriptive metaphors, phrasing and the constant reminding of yourself that your skin's reaction to both emotional and biological anomalies has a humbleness of accepting reality cards as they are dealt. You have a priceless finger not only on the pulse of the global chaos, but the pulse of quietness that for this reader (if I might be so bold) is what makes you and your passion for living so inspiring. There might well be many of us with our own kind of discomfort with everyday living and staying aware. But, unlike myself, you have the ability and steadfast resolve to not ever let it take you down. For myself, I think I'm constantly bobbing in an ocean that moves about my psyche with roiling waves and rippling calm waters. I find your kind of writing is often the lifebuoy I hold and embrace in my most tumultuous moments. I thank you for that. I am humbled by your talent and spirit. Give us more. It's better than a 7 course dinner at Manhattan's Le Bernardin. Namasta.
The Slap-Kiss of Life (Short Story) - 4/1/2025 9:35:57 AM
Indeed the human condition is an inexplainable mystery. We can only live it and experience it to imagine all that it has to offer, including the pain the suffering and the challenges. There is an authenticity to this piece that draws the reader into its vortex, offering up a powerful reflection on personal and worldly suffering. Well done, Diana. You do have a "way with words".
In The Room Where It Happened (Short Story) - 3/15/2025 12:31:15 PM
Yes, some pretty heavy thoughts that remind me of mental illness, perhaps recurring. Your painting certainly shows it. Your way of expressing things is unique and unsurpassed.
But I couldn't help but think about the poor coed on Spring break Tyson swept out to sea never, never to return.
Ron
In The Room Where It Happened (Short Story) - 3/6/2025 8:58:37 AM
Sounds pretty heavy and dire. The pic intense and meaningful.
Best phrase: "the cry-well was dry" Indeed. and "became an extinct species!"
Windows (Short Story) - 2/6/2025 10:04:19 AM
Such a unique way of perception and all through the eyes, our outward sense of vision, inviting the reader to witness such wonderful perceptions by being invited into the eyes of the beholder.
I was about to write "a brilliant poem" and I will go ahead and do so because for me this piece is a kind of poem and could be set up as such. So many lines filled with understanding and insight.
My favorite lines (in the style of DL), "There is permission" among many others because there is so much in those eyes. Thank you for permission to enter.
Windows (Short Story) - 2/4/2025 3:18:10 AM
An open invitation with endless possibilities.
Windows (Short Story) - 2/3/2025 2:33:10 PM
This is with such joy and meloncholy that transcends that past, bringing such reflections into your moment of now. What a wonderful array of images. This I will copy and put next to my sleeping quarters. Can't think of a better way to massage my brain and heart into some dreams that will let me awaken with a smile. So much depth in this piece. Writing like this is what gets me up in the morning and gives me flight to the computer to check if there's more. Namaste, dear poet.
Beauty School (Short Story) - 1/25/2025 2:33:23 PM
You seem to have a lot of experience with beauty treatments. And in prison? What a delightful way to approach it. I'm not sure why you are there except that perhaps as protagonist you did something wrong financially with your boss and ended up in prison at 56 looking for a new occupation.
Beautifully written and you certainly do have the young generation in mind… studying up on the vernacular.
Ron
Mr. & Mrs. Old vs. The Medical Industrial Complex (Short Story) - 1/24/2025 3:22:03 PM
A delightful story of what can happen when one overhear something that is disturbing in the next room and jumps to conclusions. Especially the elderly who get off and confused. But this one seems to be quite knowledgeable, thanks to Google. Gave me a good laugh.
But I was wondering if Mr. Old was a descendent of Ransom E Old, who created the Oldsmobile in 1897 and the first jingle. Come Ride With Me Lucille. The real Mr. Old would be very old today. And wonder if he rolled over in his grave when GM discontinued his car a few years ago.
Run
Beauty School (Short Story) - 1/21/2025 8:15:44 AM
Bless their juvenile hearts, indeed. I am still teaching composition to college freshmen, so am familiar with the Gen-Z generation.
Utterly delightful and true to life. Love the dialogue for which you definitely have a natural flair.
And the endless details, so spot on, which would take too long to specify. "She chuffs..." Kind of a new word for me, but didn't need to look it up. It speaks for itself.
Another prose-gem from the pen of Diana.
Mr. & Mrs. Old vs. The Medical Industrial Complex (Short Story) - 1/17/2025 4:24:36 AM
An utterly delightful rendition of what can go wrong in those places and the kind of treatment one can expect . Ditto all that Odin wrote as well. More vignettes please
Mr. & Mrs. Old vs. The Medical Industrial Complex (Short Story) - 1/16/2025 5:26:20 PM
And you trick us into believing you are a writer of short thought. Damn, girl. This is brilliant writing about what so many writers forget; most of drama is relating through the 5 senses and you do in spades. What a delightful fun and creative bit of fire works you created here. Following your style of reviewing, let me quote a couple of 'throw down to the mat" lines. Write more of this. It is so fucking inventive and fresh.
Once in her medical wrap-around gown that encircles her three times and reaches her ankles, Mrs. Old shuffles herself to the prep room of the eye clinic to meet with the pre-o
But she thinks Nurse deserves that remark, because there wasn’t even an introduction, just the beat-to-death standard, “So what brings you in today?” a blatant portrayal that patients are pies on the conveyor belt.
Nurse couldn’t tell if this difficult patient was joking because Mrs. Old’s face only had two eyes looming above an oversized
Mrs. Old: “Oh we are SO finished here. I heard that! And I’m just going to forget this insane idea to trust you with my eye repair…I’ll get a Guide Dog For The Blind before I let your cadaver student prime-rib slice into my eyeball!”
Perfume (Short Story) - 1/16/2025 2:49:44 PM
OMD! What a thing to endure. Did that tincture from your mother age badly? Was it beyond its sale date? My wife's mother's Christian Dior black sequin gown had not aged one bit when it graced Jan's equally trim body and it didn't reek of any perfume from that famous Paris Fashion house where it was bought in the 1950s.
I favor perfume like my mother's cooking, primarily cinnamon and vanilla like Emerude and many others. While I'm not allergic to anything that I know of, I find that most extracts from flowers like roses immediately cause me to want to get out of their pheromone power.
Ron
Perfume (Short Story) - 1/15/2025 1:16:56 PM
Your way with words and images never fails to cause a smile, and many times, a tear. This glimpse of the unusual was rife with reading stops just to savor the preceding words. Wonderful bit of humor and a pinch of melancholy thrown in, giving your readers another ride on your carousel of surprises. I really enjoyed reading this a few times, each time my smile getting broader.
REST (Poetry) - 6/14/2026 5:12:10 PM
So many people do not see the value of doing nothing for a little while and just catching your breath. Smart ones know the value of silence, and meditative moments, thank you for reminding me of this Diana
REST (Poetry) - 3/8/2026 11:51:33 AM
A gentle, needed reminder, Diane. You capture so well how rest is misread in a world that worships busyness. Your lines create a small sanctuary of their own—quiet, steady, and honest. I especially love how you frame rest not as retreat but as recovery, a return to oneself. Beautifully done
REST (Poetry) - 3/5/2026 12:29:29 PM
They used to prescribe it. Bedrest, they called it. But more likely today, they would want you to get out of bed and walk in the park or something peaceful like that.
But from what you wrote, you have found it by going into your library and browsing.
What I don't get at night call mom I get a few times a day by just going outside on the little deck in front, putting my feet up high, to let the blood flow to my brain and just relaxing for 150-20 minutes while listening to the cars go by on the street, the birds twittering, the dog barking and an occasional jet plane flying off going somewhere, like San Antonio.
Ron
REST (Poetry) - 3/4/2026 2:13:56 PM
Such a quiet and arresting look at one of our most precious gifts: the ability to rest... pretty much whenever we wish. Yet... as your words so beautifully express, many fear looking weak, without purpose is they reveal they are but resting to recharge what is so important... that thrust forward to be all one is, to take the risk of being authentic and without a buried agenda. So many behave as you've suggested. They trade honest rest for making sure no one says they are running, fearful etc. So much to think about in so few words. Your talent of making but a few words so meaningful needs to be expressed more often. Thank you for this. Namaste, dear poet.
…….continued — The Journal (Poetry) - 2/23/2026 9:49:56 AM
As I read I felt that your journal was in an account of deep tragedy until I read the last two lines and discovered that it also contains a bit of glee.
The photo is wonderful with its tattered pages and inked images on the cover. Oh, that I could have such a tone in my possession. Alas, it will never be so. I do have some collections of past drawings and sketches that astound me for my ability back then.
Ron
…….continued — The Journal (Poetry) - 2/22/2026 8:25:27 AM
There’s a beautiful restraint in this piece — a sense that the journal itself becomes a living companion, absorbing what can’t be spoken aloud. I love how you capture the dual nature of writing: the abyss that receives our wounds, and the small, surprising grin that arrives when truth finally settles on the page.
Your lines move with a gentle, unforced clarity. “Bandage for the bleed” and “no mirror-pose this” especially struck me — they reveal how the page allows a kind of honesty we rarely grant ourselves elsewhere.
A lovely meditation on the private spaces where we ourselves reveal.
…….continued — The Journal (Poetry) - 2/22/2026 3:47:20 AM
It sounds like a mighty book to reckon with Diana, your work is always brilliant, your art, breath taking. So good to read your valuable words once again, Have a precious day dear poetess
…….continued — The Journal (Poetry) - 2/21/2026 4:25:40 PM
Magical progression of emotions as they interfold and drift into the next. Yes, the "dose of honesty" is apparent, trusting the reader will realize he or she too has such moment-to-moment restless honesty that must be grounded in the art of expression. What makes this so relatable to me is that I, too, try to write noteworthy thoughts, and I often turn to the piano for a different form of grounding. And, even some of my memories of climbing have been arrested with this piece. Such a fusion of moments within moments is not common among most. You have a unique ability to convey such heartfelt layers of thought without a touch of sentimentality or woe-is-me. My highest praise for this miniature masterpiece. Namste, dear poet.
The Frogs Are Singing (Poetry) - 1/25/2026 12:51:16 PM
Your poem sings an anthem of quiet moral courage. I love how the frogs’ chorus becomes a national conscience, stretching from coast to coast, reminding us that decency is not an abstract ideal but a lived, shared responsibility. The contrast you draw between the joyful noise of community and the darker noise of fear is heard with real force. And the way the people’s voices rise to echo the frogs’ message gives the poem a hopeful lift. A lovely reminder that even in troubled times, small voices can call us back to ourselves.
The Frogs Are Singing (Poetry) - 1/23/2026 2:39:12 PM
You're right. More than ever, the good people of this country should move out and into the streets demanding that the will of the people, not of a few wealthy people, determined the course of this great nation and the world.
Ron
The Frogs Are Singing (Poetry) - 1/23/2026 8:40:27 AM
Good to have you back speaking your consciousness with fact and hope. Such a shout for sanity is this pulse of clarity and empathy. To maintain a sense of topical awareness, one is made to run in place as history not only repeats itself, but asks we never have to repeat again... just bow to the emporer of the western hemisphere. So, ingesting your words of warning are more than a cautionary alert, your words are joining otheres who feel we are living tn the growth of a mind-sick plague that will continue to contaminate the well and more deeply penetrate the infected. Thank the creation of cognitive, creative and adaptability, endowing us with the gift of control, but a constrol that listens more to Nature than to the humanstance that opts to think of the masses as cageable. Your Portland thesis of coercion is so timely, If only more will wake up from thier hypnotic trance of Making America Great again and resolve to make themselves sane again. Thank you again for posting such a needed reminder of how those of us still with the capacity to logically use our hearts and minds will someday be able to look back and hopefully give new meaning to the answer to what the iconic Peggy sang, "Is That All There Is?"
Off Grid (Poetry) - 12/29/2025 1:30:48 PM
So powerfully, yet simply put. Why are so many hiding in the status quo. Going along with distinctly onerous activity as though it were normal. And why is there so much anger held in that comes out in bursts of insanity?
I don't know. But I always approach everyone and everything with openness and kindness, because it's just part of my nature. I have a hard time getting angry, even when betrayed. It's such a useless emotion.
Thank you for your insight and hopefully an upcoming better year as you recover your abilities more and more.
Ron
Off Grid (Poetry) - 12/29/2025 10:39:17 AM
Taking the position of seeing the year as it truly is asks the writer to be ready for those who choose to ignore reality and instead fantasize about a Hallmark-card approach. Your taking the position that you have is corageous in a country that seems to be la la land prone. Ed phillips and I also found the year challenging in our last few posts. Oh, how I wish there was a higher degree of sanity in managing and governing our country, but I fear we're only experiencing the beginning of a long haul. "Off Grid" asks the reader to pay attention and use their gray matter to think and act critically. I know that's a big order, but perhaps some strong words from us passed around might help. Thanks for posting. Missed you.
Off Grid (Poetry) - 12/29/2025 10:31:14 AM
A stark (and truthful) portrait of a society off the grid, such an apt title for the poem since it is the "hinge" on the door of the poem. The one bright light, ".The one ray of light, a solitary woman giving sleeping bags to unhoused people, counterbalanced by the symbolic image of the upper classes buying faraday bags to shield their digital footprints. Your poem is timely and profound, truths that need to be spoken.
Noise (Poetry) - 11/18/2025 11:48:10 AM
A poem that moves from the chaos of noise to the calm of serenity found in silence. Precisely what we need to escape from in this frenetic world in order to enter a more peaceful (and less stressful) state of being. This kind of silence is not emptiness but the fullness of depth, just as the sparsity of the poem is filled with depth. Love it.
Noise (Poetry) - 11/18/2025 8:44:22 AM
Profound is right. Fortunately, I'm losing my hearing and much of that noise is lost to me. It's like static on the old television–worthless spam to the ears.
And, while listening to old artists and their songs on the computer every evening, I zone out and miss all performances before waking up and discovering where the time went on my clock. Silence is golden.
Ron
Noise (Poetry) - 11/17/2025 4:31:38 PM
You, unlike me, manage to pack so much to think about in a few short sentences. One could apply your impression to multiple areas: politics, social media and virgin thought. It's a haunting impulse that arrests in this reader the impact your sensorial visions take me to. We truly have to wonder about sleep being the only place of safe keeping of reality and it's preferences for the individual. I for one, will most likely have these few short sentences goading me into a night long dream of lucid ipifanies. Your work is always so frefreshign to the mind and heart of us still conscious. Stay well and productive... more often than lately.
The Journal (Poetry) - 10/23/2025 9:11:42 AM
Makes me sad I never kept one. I can see from the agony and ecstasy that you engaged in a lot of self improvement through the process of keeping your journal.
And I love the outstanding sketch on your cover. My sister-in-law was a horse woman and was Miss Wisconsin Rodeo for two years with an option to compete in Las Vegas for national honors, but didn't go because of the cost.
A graduate student I knew at West Virginia University wrote me that she fell in love with a visiting artist from Argentina, married him, and got her wish, to ride naked on horse back on a deserted South American beach.
However, he believed in machismo, so she left him and came back home.
Ron
The Journal (Poetry) - 10/23/2025 2:22:07 AM
Diana likes to highlight certain remarkable verses in other poets' poems, she has a few of her own in this memorable poem. "Embossed, planted, paved, burnished, brandished, milked, flung, crushed to chest, held there tightly." I see a "to be continued", so please keep them coming.
The Journal (Poetry) - 10/22/2025 4:13:27 PM
Having spent a good deal of time with the subject of your poem (unfortunately, without the grace of a leather-bound volume), I can still attest to the impact such a realm of history could have on you... as it did on me. The passion of your words, the depth in which your prose takes us is indeed another credit to your ability to use minimal language to fully immerse the reader into whatever world you create. Such a talent you have. Such a gift for us all to partake of. Thank you, Diana—another keeper to return to often.
Best If Used By Expiration Date (Poetry) - 9/27/2025 12:04:32 PM
This piece reminds me t so much of my days of travel that have now been curtailed since the days of the pandemic. However, I only ever travelled with one suitcase, and very often just a carry-on one. Travel light was always my specialty. I am looking for a new expiration date for my travel options.
Best If Used By Expiration Date (Poetry) - 9/27/2025 10:14:54 AM
I think a metaphor for all the baggage we have hanging around that we should get rid of.
Don't know where am I around the world bag went. To a happy home, I hope.
I love antiques that don't have an expiration date. But unfortunately, we all do… So have to let go.
Ron
Best If Used By Expiration Date (Poetry) - 9/25/2025 3:46:59 PM
As happens so often, your word play surfaces with a roar of obviousness to those with a connection to critical reality. I see this poem as a proclamation of need... another trunk. For, you have never suggested an end, end. This poem asks us to oblige you with another helping word. YES!!! Please more "helping" as your words ALWAYS, carry a message of sharing, of giving, of hopefully reaching those who need more sharing and giving. Such an abstract of loving life. Thank you for sharing. And thank you for your generous thoughts of my latest poems. I just posted one that was a struggle. You'll know why.
Forgiving Ourselves (Poetry) - 9/6/2025 4:20:13 PM
This is a piece of writing that cannot be imitated. Your self-exam suggests pain beyond the arc of suffering. It is also a reflection of the process that all readers can absorb as a gift of learned self-respect. I so wish you well in this effort to find explanation for how this and other experiences are sometimes very hard to understand, if at all. But there is always the feeling... the sense of inner prayer that tries to keep the level of pain controlled. Very courageous... your sharing. Thank you.
Forgiving Ourselves (Poetry) - 9/5/2025 12:55:46 PM
I hate the word, sin. I prefer the word you used, mistake. The sooner we correct our mistakes or apologize if we cannot correct them, as so often happens, the sooner we will be able to sleep better and not worry about it.
The golden opportunity in making mistakes is experience. The more we experience, the more we know. The more we know the wiser we are. The wiser we are the more easily we can see when someone else makes a mistake. That we shouldn't get angry and reject it, but forgive them and give them an opportunity to learn from that experience as well.
I've been watching Car Wars on TV. I see many minor mishaps turn into terrible fights and sometimes, the mishaps become much worse. Simply because the participants did not see what happens was just a simple mistake and took it as a terrible afront that needed immediate punishment. Often, violating laws in the process and hurting both parties more than just relaxing and accepting what happened.
Ron
Forgiving Ourselves (Poetry) - 9/4/2025 1:58:09 PM
Such mercy in the act of forgiving others, such insight (and nobility) in the act of forgiving oneself. Beautifully understated to convey so much more. Each stanza peeling back layers of weakness, misunderstand and guilt in the desire for the bestowal of grace. Lovely.
The Crush (Poetry) - 8/30/2025 3:00:02 PM
Thank you very much, Ron, for your comment. I value your opinion. The sheer dress effect in this digital sketch is a brush tool called ‘triangulum’ and it has the transparency that is the last layer of the piece. These digital paintings have panes of work, pancaked under/over each other in layers that can be worked with independent of each other. The software is called ‘Procreate.’ and done on an iPad using an iPencil as the brush tool. ~~ djl
The Crush (Poetry) - 8/30/2025 12:28:36 PM
I have learned not to let nasty words crush me. But I think that women are more sensitive than men, and take words more seriously.
I must say that you are totally back when it comes to artistry. I believe that is the best of your original work that I've ever seen. How are you achieved the transparency in such a realistic way is a real skill having done a bit of wax pencil on construction paper rendering.
Ron
The Crush (Poetry) - 8/29/2025 12:36:08 PM
Asl always, your ability to arrest in your readers such emotion and contemplation with just a few words is remarkable. And your painting... such depth as well. Yes, we can all find that moment, or perhaps many moments, when our world can come crashing down from a single word spoken, or sometimes, written. One of the most precious principles we own are those building blocks we gave to have some dignity. Thank you for another brief, but oh so lasting, few words.
The Crush (Poetry) - 8/29/2025 2:54:10 AM
"Holding goodness - her open face", such fine lines, standouts, in this brief but powerful poem. And "ow just one word slaps dignity away", suggesting the power of words (a word) and the fragility of "dignity". Love this.
Sign Language (Poetry) - 7/28/2025 11:26:46 AM
Yes, that expression has become ubiquitous these days. But is it sincere or insincere, like so many acquaintances these days that come and go in a flash.
My second caregiver, Dana, told me that as part of his internship as a senior premed student at Rice University, he was in a surgery by Dr DeBakey, noted heart surgeon, and actually held a beating heart in his hand. The ultimate heart holding.
A beautiful young black woman gave me a heart the other day at the dental office. She was referring to the book I had given her of short stories. It made me feel really good that she appreciated my writing that much and wanted more.
Beh wants to learn sign language and teach me, so that when I become fully deaf, she can communicate with me by sign language. I prefer that she use her phone to give me captions of what she's trying to tell me.
Ron
Sign Language (Poetry) - 7/28/2025 8:53:50 AM
❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Diana ( the other)
Sign Language (Poetry) - 7/27/2025 4:21:58 PM
Another loving write by a poet who knows well the technique and the readability of the day-to-day poet audience. Your poem for me is in a varied Haiku style and works so well with the lean usage of words, each having solid meaning. Love to see you back. Your writing is an inspiration to me as a work-in-progress author and poet. There's alway something to remember with your work. Thank you for being back and providing the site with the kind of words it so needs.
Silly is Beautiful, Too (Poetry) - 5/29/2025 5:30:13 PM
CHILDREN ARE PURE, NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL. THEY HAVE NO HANG UPS AND THUS...FROM THEM FLOWS THE 'SILLINESS' THAT WE AS ADULTS WISH WE STILL HAD AND WERE ABLE TO GIVE. ENJOYED, DIANA...THANKS. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH... HIS+INSPIRATIONS
Silly is Beautiful, Too (Poetry) - 5/24/2025 3:49:10 PM
Oh for the free flowing abandonment of childhood…
Where unfettered imagination is the order of
the day…we would do well to recapture some of that
Innocent magic…to let go of the sensibilities of adulthood and FLY…
A wonderful poem which caused me to self reflect on how
I can have more creative fun with my six year old granddaughter…
Diana ( the other) 🌿
Great to be back and reading your work again…!
Silly is Beautiful, Too (Poetry) - 5/24/2025 12:40:20 PM
It may be silly, but childhood talent is really profound.
I have a tape I can still play of my younger twin brothers at four singing I Want To Hold Your Hand with perfection.
And the time I arrived tired after a long drive to a good friend's home for the night. When Ariane, about 6, asked me, "Can you draw a bird for me?" Her mother objected, but I gave it a try… it was the best and only sketch of a bird that I ever drew and wish I still had it. Maybe Arian still does.
Ron
Everywhere (Poetry) - 5/24/2025 12:16:30 PM
Why was I thinking of The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down?
What an emotional piece driving directly at what is wrong with trying to make America some so-called great again when it never really was. When are the good folks in this country and in the Congress going to stand up for decency instead of cowtowing to power and greed.
What's become of us?
Ron
Silly is Beautiful, Too (Poetry) - 5/24/2025 12:08:36 PM
Indeed, children draw from their free-flowing imagination whatever they want and have fun with it without it just being silly to them. It's the doing and not the having done that means so much more to them.
Silly is Beautiful, Too (Poetry) - 5/24/2025 10:34:22 AM
Both your image and text cry out to be heard and remembered, for far too many have long since forgotten what you so clearly and simply remind us of with your profound ability to pick just the right words to send forth your heart and mind for your readers to enjoy and grow from. Love your choice of image and married text.
Big Boys Do Cry (Poetry) - 5/23/2025 12:10:55 PM
Wow. Painful. Short and to the point. Your work has renewed my interest in writing poetry.
Everywhere (Poetry) - 5/23/2025 12:07:29 PM
Fantastic. A grim subject using metaphors that show exactly how the world is feeling at this moment. How I feel. Demolition by means of neglect. How far we have fallen under the maniacal mob boss in such a short period of time.
Everywhere (Poetry) - 5/23/2025 10:03:00 AM
Wow, if I interpreted this correctly, the premise of changes, modifications leading to deterioration, leading to "human decency, becomes the last extinct species."
The word "thing" is a profound epiphany of what might be left someday as a result of your gradual paring away layer after layer until...
As always, your ability to make me stop and do some inordinate, serious thinking is so inviting. Thank you. And thank you for catching the missing tooth "witch" in my last poem.
Everywhere (Poetry) - 5/23/2025 8:53:55 AM
Well penned. These images of distress, destruction and loss serve as hallmarks for your overarching theme of the loss of human decency that we are now clearly witnessing in today's world, today's culture, and I dare say today's politics. A traditional Islamic saying comes to mind: A nation will get the leader that they deserve."
Big Boys Do Cry (Poetry) - 5/13/2025 11:31:25 AM
Everyone suffered as a result…
and the sadness continues…
Diana…🌿
Big Boys Do Cry (Poetry) - 4/28/2025 11:36:49 AM
Yes, back in our day, many young men were drafted into the military for war they didn't believe in. They hid their tears and those that could, ran for cover like Canada.
So many wounded warriors, since having to be taken care of by their wives and girlfriends. So sad for war we didn't deed to get involved in in the first place.
Ron
No Partings (Poetry) - 4/28/2025 11:24:19 AM
In your mind if not physically… kind of parallels my poem, Can't Deny.
Big Boys Do Cry (Poetry) - 4/19/2025 8:18:55 AM
There is so much to ponder with this elequent sequence of words. The damages and wounds (many of which never heal) are what the country's mental health research needs to continue, sans Kennedy. Thank you for giving your readers cause to think more on who in their own circle of friends, famly, collegues and associates might be due some additional kindness. So many are damaged.
Big Boys Do Cry (Poetry) - 4/19/2025 7:09:43 AM
So much implied, so much left unsaid. Indeed, childhood provides the backdrop to our lives. And not just childhood since we bring into our infancy an identity in a sense already identified, to be further shaped into a greater whole as we live.
No Partings (Poetry) - 4/18/2025 1:47:59 PM
Stunning in its simplicity.
Powerful in its message.
Thanks.
No Partings (Poetry) - 4/18/2025 7:43:46 AM
The seamlessness of love's intimacy laid bare for all to see in this brief poem, where even whisper dare not go. Lovely.
No Partings (Poetry) - 4/17/2025 2:45:38 PM
So deep, but so simple a feeling expressed in few words. If only we could all adopt this focus for our family and true friends. Maybe... some of us do. Once again, thank you for sharing your incredible talent.
The King’s Speech (Poetry) - 3/9/2025 12:21:01 PM
Perhaps hoping to work something out? Probably not. I certainly hope they have the courage to go ahead with impeachment proceedings again after what happened last time.
While the speech sounded nice to the uneducated, so far the action taken has upset almost every aspect of the government and we are in for a very rough ride until Congress comes to its senses and realizes it has lost it's power to make laws that stick. Nox so easily overthrown by a tyrant in sheep's clothing of golden hair over turning gray.
Ron
The King’s Speech (Poetry) - 3/5/2025 6:08:11 AM
Brilliant observations and oh so well written as always.
I learned through a Vanity Fair article yesterday that they've been receiving multiple death threats. Which is why so many bottoms were seated, paddles were raised, and polite protest was made. The GOP reps have been getting similar threats, which is why they won't bend and do the right thing. We're being run into the ground by international thugs. I see endless job opportunities for top-notch security guards. This will no doubt get uglier. Here is the link to that article if you'd like to read it. The title says it all.
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-congress-political-violence?srsltid=AfmBOorueCcB1pqJzrmX_RBg6unpZfAqtjQ2JmEQZFvw3pYDmxgdfsrN
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 3/2/2025 3:53:31 PM
You've planted ideas for many of us who seem to be running out of poetry themes. Now I'm thinking of someone's eyes, lips, feet, heart, memories, imaginations...The list could go on. BTW, I lock little fingers with a few special people as a gesture that we are "friends for life." It isn't a big thing, but nobody has refused me yet.
Cry — (Poetry) - 2/27/2025 10:07:51 PM
Many folks not happy with Trump, a cry from the heart!
Cry — (Poetry) - 2/24/2025 1:25:22 PM
Words of appreciation and admiration are felt by this reader, as the emotion generated by the text and the unique way of collage-picturing is oh so impactful... so tearful. So pleased you took the time to share these thoughts of remarkable, obvious experience.
"Oh what a state
our states are in
as we are hunted
by our skin." Indeed, my friend, indeed. Bravo!
Cry — (Poetry) - 2/24/2025 1:01:11 PM
Such a sad state of existence. A poem that stabs the heart.
Cry — (Poetry) - 2/24/2025 11:00:15 AM
"Blubber-lipped sycophants and self-appointed kings" I wonder who that may be. Love it. What a state indeed ! ! !
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 2/6/2025 2:18:02 PM
Lololololol, I relate to this 200% maybe it is a blessing.
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/6/2025 1:13:01 PM
Indeed, so many forms of sign language.
Superbly expressed.
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/6/2025 9:55:56 AM
I have written poems about hands, but none of them such as this. Beautifully executed and so expressive, like hands themselves.
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/5/2025 3:33:11 PM
wow hands can do many things, as you portray here, Diana, your poetry always exudes art and beauty ! Excellent pen
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/4/2025 10:59:16 AM
The pressing, or joining together of hands is a universal gesture across many different cultures. Having spiritual significance, symbolizing energy, intention, friendship, comfort, and at times it declares: 'Hey, I'm connecting with something way bigger than me.' In Christianity hands hold sacred significance as seen in the laying on of hands for blessings, and for healing. rlc
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/3/2025 2:08:36 PM
Everything about this is an amazing poem. The structure. The subject. And the cliincher at the end. The human hand is so expressive, those with hearing difficulty can actually converse with hand sign language.
Ron
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 2/3/2025 1:54:27 PM
I have noticed some "unexpected" things happening with the computer and particularly social media of late. Thank you for sharing, Diana. Love, peace, and blessings to you,
Regis. 🙏🌸🦋🌳🦉🌲
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/3/2025 1:52:05 PM
Yes. Some gestures are symbolic... and can have a serious meaning attributed to them. Love, peace, and blessings to you, Diana,
Regis. 🙏🌸🦋
Someone’s Hand (Poetry) - 2/3/2025 1:44:56 PM
The observant eye and mind at work again. The chronical of hand gestures is such a comment on choice, as every reference reminds us of how much we need to touch, and yes... hold on for life. Your painting is also so complimentary with its ghost like aura eminating from the tips. Loved this one.
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/27/2025 11:49:07 AM
Something weird is going on online!
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 1/25/2025 5:07:47 PM
OUR MUSIC, THAT IS...OUR 'SONGS'...ARE DEFINITELY MUCH MORE THAN JUST BARS AND SYMBOLS. FOR WE...SING...IN SO MANY DIFFERENT WAYS! VERY MUCH ENJOYED THIS KEEPER. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
The Dancer (Poetry) - 1/25/2025 5:00:34 PM
INDEED, WHO KNOWS WHAT ONE 'LIFE-LONG EVENING'...IN THE LIVES OF TWO...WILL THEM TO DO? HIGHLY PROVOKING WORK, THANKS. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+ INSPIRATIONS
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/25/2025 4:53:24 PM
HALARIOUS....!!!! AT 80 YEARS OLD I AM LITERALLY 'LEANING' ON GOD EACH AND EVERY MOMENT, AND....HE IS SO VERY FAITHFUL! YEAH... UNEXPECTED 'THINGS' CAN HAPPEN, GLAD YOU FIXED IT! ENJOYED, THANKS DIANA!
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/24/2025 2:27:53 PM
These glitches are becoming more common as websites and platforms crank up their security.
I lost my email back in December around Christmas. I was told that the earliest back up my provider had was sometime in early November. I paid them $49 and got the whole thing back. Did they do it to me just to make money?
Ron
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/22/2025 1:43:51 PM
Yup! Email has become a cancerous-like growth that is only getting worse. Seems that whatever one might search info on Google, that subject, product etc will get harvested into a gross sharing to commerce-greed. Good to hear you gave it your boot. Love the Micky overtone.
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/22/2025 11:03:22 AM
Sweet message I love your light hearted poetry. Sending love/prayers for you :)
The Unfollowing (Poetry) - 1/22/2025 10:33:18 AM
How clever and soooo true. I press "delete all" once a day, unclicking of course the previous few that I do want to read, like your poem.
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 1/3/2025 7:28:46 AM
When all else fails to move…music always
wins through…as you so aptly illustrate…
Those higher vibrations are promptly stimulated and
the cocktail of complicated chemicals within
us rearranges itself for our utter enjoyment…
Sheer Magic … just like your poem Diana…
Diana ( the other) 🌿
The Dancer (Poetry) - 1/3/2025 7:18:56 AM
I love this enigmatic piece Diana…
And I love your artwork…pure poetry…
Diana…🌿( the other)
A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
The Dancer (Poetry) - 12/23/2024 1:46:23 PM
Finally catching up but I'm sure glad I did. So short yet so sweet. You have a way of writing like that and then matching it with your illustrations.
Don't we always wish that we could all turn off the TV and ditch the cell phone and just dance.
But I don't see any partner so I'm thinking that he just danced off your art.
Ron
For me, I have to have a partner.
The Dancer (Poetry) - 12/16/2024 4:39:36 PM
Thank you, Richard, for your comments. I fixed the squished thumb :) ~~ djl
The Dancer (Poetry) - 12/13/2024 10:59:59 AM
Magic is such an elusive word when misused. Here, magic is the ALL. Few words-- vibrations of multiple senses coalesce in making the male/female play of words and image so pronounced, yet so subtle for multiple interpretation. Loved this piece, Diana. Such power of persuasion. Kudos.
The Dancer (Poetry) - 12/13/2024 10:14:59 AM
Energy.... yes, where we put it. Positive anything is better than negative nothing. When we greet a new morning, it's always best to embrace what a privilege it is to be alive. Being able to breathe, to cogitate, to still be drawn to creating and expressing, to enjoy good food, and to love. These are essential. Your digital painting has a unique synergy to it. The colors are pleasant. The right hand looks masculine. The left thumb is squished flat, the face is feminine, the musculature looks male. These elements (and others) create a mystery, as you effectively hide from the viewer whether the depiction is male or female. Thanks. Peace... rlc
The Dancer (Poetry) - 12/13/2024 7:28:43 AM
Stunning pic to accompany an interesting write.
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/30/2024 9:50:57 AM
Your exploration of music has such a vast impact on those of us who, like you, have learned to allow music to be a voice-resounding with inordinate power. Unfortunately, far too many so-called music lovers, handicapped with mistaking noise as music, find for one reason or another, confusion prevailing when trying to comprehend the saying: "If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?" Many of us hear music as sound coming from unexpected places perhaps due to allowing senses to proliferate life, or... maybe because we're thought of as nuts.
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/28/2024 1:40:54 PM
So briefly and beautifully revealed.
Yes music is the salve that soothes our minds through all the trials and tribulations of life. And gets more important as we age.
I failed piano at seven years of age. And most other musical instruments that I tried. But I've always loved to sing and listen to music in my car when I was going someplace alone.
Ron
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/28/2024 7:13:13 AM
Luv this!!!! Music music and mo' music!!
Yes you and many others turn our woes into fun with music!!
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/27/2024 11:10:08 AM
Music really does save the day, as you beautifully suggest here in this lovely poem. I often have some kind of music soft in the background when writing my poems. It stirs a moody indulgence of mind that often helps set the tone for what I am doing.
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/27/2024 10:53:43 AM
A brilliant poem, deeply touched me, Diana.
Music In A Poem (Poetry) - 11/26/2024 12:54:40 PM
Music. My go to for peace and renewal. Thank you for expressing it so well my friend…
We The People (Poetry) - 11/21/2024 4:36:07 AM
I can see the artist in you flourish with words and with heart Diana, your poetry never leaves me untouched, your grace is evident here, have a beautiful day love
We The People (Poetry) - 11/17/2024 9:23:51 AM
A great counter to my poem, Most of Us. In a few short words you have exposed our strengths and our weaknesses.
Bravo!
Ron
We The People (Poetry) - 11/14/2024 2:39:43 PM
Your continued ability to not only arrange your visuals with the text in an always unique way, but you also consistently contextualize your opinions and convictions. The paradox runs freely in this profound mini-world view and yes, just you and me, no one is free of the ups and downs, even though many disguise both their pain and their joy for fear of being misunderstood. Thank you for distilling so much of our present global plight into such cohesive and compassionate text. Namaste, dear poet.
We The People (Poetry) - 11/14/2024 4:40:01 AM
I think you have just about covered it, including yes, making mistakes. Let's hope this election isn't one of them for we the people.
The “Why?” (Poetry) - 11/12/2024 12:52:28 PM
First I noticed the interesting illustration with the trick wording.
And then, based on the timing of the poem I thought of the childlike nature of most of the population that hasn't grown up beyond childish behavior and localist thought. Leaving the rest of us wondering… Why?
I know the answer and it's very simple. Modern society coddles most people to the point where they don't think for themselves except when it comes to personal things like the cost of the things they buy every day and the irrational fears that come out of pastimes like social media, sensational headlines, and even fake or trick studies leading to the wrong conclusions.
I once stood watching Niagara Falls with a doctoral student I had with me. He said, "I wonder where all that water comes from?" He is now the retired Prof. and Dean of the School of Technology at Kent State University.
Yes, the weather is changing. But we should no longer ask, Why? We should know.
Ron
The “Why?” (Poetry) - 11/10/2024 8:14:17 PM
This is brilliant! I read it over and over.
The “Why?” (Poetry) - 11/10/2024 8:16:43 AM
You have highlighted the profound question WHY in such an interesting way, beginning as you say with insistent children wanting to know the reasons for things. But not just children, we too want to know about the "mystery of the unknown", a question that we pursue all of our lives, until, in the end, perhaps we finally do know.
The “Why?” (Poetry) - 11/10/2024 7:54:12 AM
You've penned a profound, simple conundrum that is in the hearts and minds of many today... perhaps like never before in their lifetimes. and then the voices of children, be they chronologically child or adult children, that like a dog with a rag toy, you can't take it away from him, or her. Our infantile base of asking and learning takes on different forms as we experience more and more of the years falling behind us. Yet... the "Why" is ever present.
As usual, you've taken an abstract position of a fundamental reality and given us more invigilating ways to consider if we are truly getting all we can out of life without hurting others. Kudos, Diana. Another winner.
Under His Eye (Poetry) - 11/9/2024 12:29:39 PM
At first I thought it was for Halloween, but by the end, I knew what you meant.
Too bad it didn't happen. I believe the underlying cause was the inability of over half of the population to see beyond their personal comfort and not the reality of society as a whole. They are basically incompetent, but don't know it. The kind of people that he calls "losers."
Four more years will tell the tale and by that time, they may have realized their mistake.
Ron
Under His Eye (Poetry) - 10/29/2024 7:01:21 PM
Oh would that it may happen. I am holding my breath that change is in the air. A delightfully understated piece of poetic flair.
Under His Eye (Poetry) - 10/28/2024 4:07:28 PM
A richly imbued warning your poetic piece is offering. There is that someone who would have our country ruled like a want-to-be Sauron, and of course, go on to acquire, suffocate and cast into oblivion all who might appose his eye of control and self-worship. We can only hope that leadership of this country by a woman will empower other women to provide the guardian fences of kindness in their duty to castrate and bury these paranormal eugenics of demagoguery and subversive power... of not just one, but of many who have already fallen prey to the Maia pounding on our door. Kudos for the bravery to post this quiet plea for conscience and civility.
Katagiri Roshi Says: (Poetry) - 10/15/2024 9:38:57 AM
In the photograph, Mount Rainier looks like it's floating in air like an island onto itself. It is certainly a monument that stands for the state of Washington.
I know that Rainier is a volcano that could have the same fate as Mount St. Helen. Or worse, run a pyroclastic flow all the way to Seattle like it has in the past. A sleeping giant of fire and brimstone.
On a Thanksgiving trip from Redwood City, California in 1968 to Washington and back, I decided to take the park road around Mount Rainier on my way home. When I got to Chinook Pass, the worn tires on my 1957 Desoto were losing traction and I was crab walking just to make it over the top. Recall a 1954 Buick loaded down with skiers and skis, passed me easily on that stretch, when normally, no car would ever get past me in the mountains. When I got to Cayuse Pass, the sign said, "Chains Required." Fortunately, I could continue on down the other side of the mountain and toward home rather than having to backtrack.
Ron
Katagiri Roshi Says: (Poetry) - 10/12/2024 8:37:52 AM
Having spent some time on that mountain, your words give such a serene and eloquent meaning to our paradoxical life, at least for those of us open to thinking seriously about what seems obvious. Rainer was a pleasant climb, but Mt Adams nearby gave me a taste of whiteouts and rappelling down into a 60 ft crevasse of ice. I think I had a similar impression of a mountain's multiple personality as Ranier gave you. I went from rock to snow to a whiteout, to ice. Yes, it was truly an educational climb. That was in 1982. Today, I don't think I'd risk it, given all the volcanic activity of late. Back to your piece here, as usual, whatever you pick to write about, it's always an epiphany kind of experience for me... and you art work and photography are always in such harmony. I only had the opportunity to spend time with but a few pages of Katagiri's writing while involved in philosophy classes at SOU, but I am compelled to study more of him after reading your work here. Namaste.
Katagiri Roshi Says: (Poetry) - 10/12/2024 8:08:14 AM
Utterly amazing photo ! !
The enigma, the perplexity, the mystery of the mountains laid bare for all to see.
The mountain beautifully (and simply) juxtaposed against the mountain valleys within. Love this.
Zen to the End (Poetry) - 9/30/2024 10:51:25 AM
Like dew drops on a lotus leaf, Diana, we all eventually vanish. As the Poet Kozan proffered:
"Empty handed I entered the world
Barefoot I leave it
My coming, my going,
two simple happenings
that got entangled"
Enjoyed... Peace... rlc
She and Her Harmonica (Poetry) - 9/24/2024 9:25:26 AM
A very unique and lovely poem, Diana. A pleasure to read.
She and Her Harmonica (Poetry) - 9/21/2024 1:05:49 PM
Such a poignant story. In a single: poem. Where have all the harmonic players gone? I guess modern performances that stress a lot of dance and pyrotechnics don't suit them to simple mimicking of sounds you describe in the poem.
Based on your comment, I believe you may have been describing your harmonica journey. I hope you can pass it on to others in your family. I'm not sure anyone in my family will want my dad's CCC bugle that he played reveille and taps to grandma's distaste during holiday gatherings.
Ron
She and Her Harmonica (Poetry) - 9/21/2024 7:03:05 AM
I have written a couple of poems inspired by the harmonica, a most intimate instrument enlivened by the spirit of the human breath. There is a haunting aspect to your poem that matches the haunting aspect of the lonely harmonica. Lovely work.
Piano (Poetry) - 9/20/2024 3:20:39 PM
Great music and glass wind chimes. The saviors of souls.
She and Her Harmonica (Poetry) - 9/20/2024 3:11:51 PM
This brings back memories of my younger hippie days. I miss them. But just as your writing say, the journey must end.
AWOL (Poetry) - 9/15/2024 12:32:43 PM
Welcome back. Fill in the dots please with some verses of your marvellous poetry, not to mention your glorious comments.
AWOL (Poetry) - 9/15/2024 8:45:27 AM
Very interesting. When I saw your artwork all I could think about was the story I saw on CBS Sunday Morning this morning about all of the birds that are losing their lives hitting windows. Including the large ones I have on the backside of my house. Sometimes hit multiple times in a day. Cats are waiting below.
All this death of birds can be eliminated by simply putting a dot pattern like you have illustrated above on the window so that the bird will not think its reflection is another bird. From the inside, the human eye soon adjusts to the situation and sees outside normally. Or, windows can be made to look completely opaque on the outside while clearly visible as clear windows from the inside.
Ron
AWOL (Poetry) - 9/15/2024 6:51:50 AM
Good to see you've returned.
"Dot to dot without numbers." What a simple phrase that begs we read between the dots, find the subtext, accept how uncomplicated some of our complex decisions are.
I periodically find myself in much the same way--AWOL and allowing time to help me decide why such a choice.
I've come to believe the mind and heart are incredible parameters for measuring the emotional and intellectual weather we're confronting and whether it is time to "fall silent, disappear."
The best part of such a conundrum is you returning and sharing your spirited talent with your readers. Again, welcome back.
Listening (Poetry) - 8/10/2024 7:20:01 PM
So few words but such deep meaning. Very nicely done.
Fee
The Sigh (Poetry) - 8/10/2024 7:17:18 PM
Beautiful write that stirs images of love but also loss...'/fee
The Sigh (Poetry) - 8/4/2024 8:59:34 AM
Love that line! Beautifully placed at both ends of your poem. From what I see, it looks like one of those surrealistic dreams we get that seem to take hours of hot passion but can really take place in the blink of a REM sleep eye.
Ron
The Sigh (Poetry) - 8/3/2024 7:56:31 AM
The opening and closing of the poem - brilliant. W$hat lies between but images that take the reader on a unique tour, inspiring images perhaps not otherwise felt, all between the folds of a sigh. Love it.
The Sigh (Poetry) - 8/2/2024 1:33:49 PM
This is a haunting image, as the baton takes us through this symphony of musical images, where instruments of the heart fill the air with word melodies spoken out loud for all to find connection. Whether at the beginning of a "sigh" or the end, may you never lose the wealth of perfectly composed imagery—a talent that carries your readers into realms of understanding that are unique and prized by all who avail themselves of your pen's magic.
Write The Ugly Part Out Loud (Poetry) - 7/27/2024 5:34:48 AM
The poem is well written.
As I have never seen the 4th of July fireworks I do not know how loud or horrid they are but in the movies on our Aussie TV's they seem lovely and it all looks spectacular.
I am sorry to find out that the fireworks are causing so much fear and angst,especially to dogs and wildlife.
Write The Ugly Part Out Loud (Poetry) - 7/6/2024 7:58:54 AM
I like your point of view, Ron, especially about the church mouse and celebrating. This is a great point. ~~ djl
Write The Ugly Part Out Loud (Poetry) - 7/5/2024 12:40:25 PM
I read recently, that as early as 1777, there were fireworks celebrating July 4 the year before when the Declaration of Independence was signed. Although the Republic was a long way from being formed and war with England was about to get underway.
Babies are scared of loud noises, along with our pets. We like to be scared and we like to see beautiful colors dissolving in the air to smoke. It was the bombardment of Fort Henry that Frances Scott Key got inspired enough to write the Star-Spangled Banner.
Last night, there were several celebrations with fireworks going on in our neighborhood. Downtown, the fireworks over Houston for 21 minutes accompanied by song were more spectacular and more colorful than they have ever been. I mourn the loss of hearing that makes listening to those beautiful songs and voices very hard now.
People just don't like to be quiet as a church mouse when celebrating.
Ron
Write The Ugly Part Out Loud (Poetry) - 7/5/2024 9:37:02 AM
I think your poem deftly points to the irony that exists now within many troubled hearts that the grand, once-a-year, celebratory effort of fireworks intended to herald, as you wrote, respect, freedom and decency, now seem to have a clarion effort of a kind of bellicosity marked by lies deceit, slavery and yes indecency that has been normalized. May we soon climb out of this pernicious hole.
Write The Ugly Part Out Loud (Poetry) - 7/5/2024 6:17:57 AM
Persuasive words, dear poet. Fireworks are indeed with subtext meaning to many of us. As your words allude, what once upon a time reminded both child and adult of its celebratory purpose, has taken on a questionable impact. Keywords that take our thinking where it needs to be (and cautiously where we must stay focused on) are the end result of not paying attention to a king, wars, and past boundaries of respect and freedom. And yes, decency. Important write, Diana. Hope many read it and contemplate the warnings.
The Mermate Dance (Poetry) - 7/2/2024 12:31:53 PM
A nice little bit of fantasy matching your artful creativity. Actually, I liked your description of the most.
Ron
The Mermate Dance (Poetry) - 7/2/2024 3:06:23 AM
Ah those falling stars, may they keep falling into my heart.
This Day I Lay Down On The Earth (Poetry) - 6/29/2024 4:17:18 PM
It is good to stay in contact with Mother Earth and all the beauty and serenity she offers. Your words are awesomely written, Diana!!
Love ya!
Jane
The Mermate Dance (Poetry) - 6/29/2024 12:44:34 PM
There is a lot of synergism going on today, as your succinct yet delightful promise of reality in a new way for any of us was causing a smile to form on my rather serious and somewhat exhausted face of exercising a draft of "From Where Came?" Your wordsmithing of charm and discovery was just what I needed. This is a man I'd love to meet. Kudos, Diana. May all the stars you deserve gracefully move about and around you.
This Day I Lay Down On The Earth (Poetry) - 6/22/2024 9:56:06 AM
So beautiful and poignant it brought a tear to my eye. While the word trillion is an exaggeration, your 2nd stanza speaks volumes of our insignificance when it comes to the natural world around us.
I try to get out every day for a few minutes to soak up some sun. Even here in suburbia, I am struck with the sights, the smell and the sound of nature all around. Still seemingly thriving with lots of heavenly scented fresh air even though the environment is totally remanufactured by my planned subdivision. But even here, invasive plants from all of the world are thriving in our hot dry conditions and providing food for both human and wildlife.
It's a wonderful world to experience if we just stop multitasking, get out in it and relax.
Ron
This Day I Lay Down On The Earth (Poetry) - 6/22/2024 7:33:21 AM
Such depth and meaning lying between the lines, such simplicity within the lines. Bravo!
This Day I Lay Down On The Earth (Poetry) - 6/22/2024 6:52:13 AM
Ah, the ONE of it all. A ZEN fundamental that is so missing in today's competitive mindset. This piece truly touched a nerve in me as I see and hear your breath just as I see and hear existence of past and future waiting to take purchase. There is such a willingness to give of yourself in this peace and it follows true to how you relate and communicate on this site. Your last stanza is such a comforting sensation of words of purity. I hope many read this and re-examine their love of self in a healthy way. So many fake their reality with no self-love but plenty of self-loathing festering beneath smiles and unauthentic behavior. This read was such a gift to this reader so early in the morning when all is truly quiet.
Piano (Poetry) - 6/20/2024 9:27:49 AM
Yes! I love to hear great piano playing. Having quit when I was 7, knowing that I never would have the gift to make the piano conveys the kinds of response you just wrote.
But the image, for me, just doesn't seem to ring true to the poem. The image has some sad and distorted quality to it that bothered me a great deal and distracts from the positive words of the poem.
Ron
Piano (Poetry) - 6/19/2024 8:37:40 AM
I have written poems with music in mind, just as I write much of my poetry with music in the background to create a suitable mood when I am writing. this poem works on so many levels, and most profoundly at its deepest levels. Each word as a unique note, allowing us to breathe when we forget to breathe.
Piano (Poetry) - 6/19/2024 6:52:34 AM
I wrote a rather extensive comment on this poem and accidentally hit the wrong key, and the comments vanished. Have to get back to work, but here's most of what I wrote before.
Yes, Garrett's piano albums have been a part of my Amazon Playlists for some time. Another pianist I think you might find intriguing is Jacques Loussier Trio. His albums are all jazz renditions of classical composers. His Bach, especially, is astounding.
Your poem demonstrates such grace and respect with each choice of words. The construction and spacing are also perfect for this write. The last two lines are an ideal summation and creates in the reader exactly what I think you had in mind: take our senses to new heights.
This is one I will read often as it lifts me back to my college days when music was my major.
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 6/18/2024 5:50:06 PM
This is simply musically lovely, Diana. Love to you,
Régis 🙏🌸💕🐦🦋
The Story (Poetry) - 6/17/2024 10:22:22 PM
A FINE WORK THAT SUBSTANTIATES THE TRUTH... WE ARE EVER CHANGING. THANK YOU, DIANA. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS
The Story — No. 2 (Poetry) - 6/17/2024 10:16:50 PM
AND... IT USUALLY HAPPENS JUST IN THE NICK OF TIME. WONDERFUL ARTISTIC SKETCH THAT IS SO CLEAR. THANKS FOR SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS.
The Story (Poetry) - 5/31/2024 1:17:31 PM
I do love your unique style of creative writing expression, Diana. Love, peace, and blessings,
Regis. 🙏
The Story — No. 2 (Poetry) - 5/31/2024 1:16:03 PM
Your verses thrill the imagination and arouse thinking. Thank you for sharing, Diana. Love, peace, and blessings to you,
Regis. 🙏🌸🦋🐦💕🌲
The Story — No. 2 (Poetry) - 5/26/2024 9:32:08 AM
Such lovely words that briefly tell a tale. Again punctuated with a wonderful artistic creation so originally yours. Kudos.
Ron
The Story — No. 2 (Poetry) - 5/26/2024 8:23:26 AM
Each line carries a jolt of ah-hah for the reader. There is such optimism inherent. Drew me back to my early NY days (1956-1969) when your images were more prevalent than the two years I recently spent there in 2006-2008. You have an inordinate talent of condensing thoughts into a few powerful words. Keep it coming.
The Story — No. 2 (Poetry) - 5/26/2024 7:33:49 AM
Part Two: an appeal to positivity and hope with a sign for hungry eyes, OPEN. Thank you for posting this enigmatic message of hope.
The Story (Poetry) - 5/26/2024 7:32:43 AM
A story in two parts: Part One, we are unfinished pieces of a human puzzle, artfully depicted in the pic.
The Story (Poetry) - 5/25/2024 10:12:55 AM
Very true. Over the years when I was directing and teaching acting and directing, I came across many artists who were obverse to your insightful poem. Many think they are who they are and that's that, when in fact, as you say, they are merely at a junction of character evolvement that is working through some pleasure or worry manifesting at the moment.
Unfinished stories. Makes one wonder if they ever finish, short of death. Important philosophy here. I hope many read it.
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/24/2024 7:42:24 AM
An eloquent and charming look at your ability to write authentically about this, and many other subjects. And you created a very impactful image, allowing the staff and notes to function as the woman's spine. Wonderful simplicity in saying "Hello" in musical terms. Loved this one.
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/23/2024 1:25:42 PM
Awesome rhythm and "rhyme,"!!! Thank you for this!!
Love ya!
Jane
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/22/2024 4:14:20 AM
Very cute and the rhythm was perfect.
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/21/2024 12:44:37 PM
Thank you for writing this!
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/21/2024 8:58:45 AM
It works. I got the beat and the rhyme.
Four-Four Time (Poetry) - 5/21/2024 8:53:56 AM
I syncopated along with you in floor-floor time, and hardly missed a beat, all in perfect rhyme.
My mother used to draw, on the sideline of the paper she was keeping track of a card score, beautiful profile line drawings like you have for this poem. Only you have filled errors out much more with a part of the body and color, like in the lips, to emphasize the strong points of your image. Reminded me very much of the very sexy, Mayan woman who was my graduate assistant from Belize.
Ron
Riddle In The Middle (Poetry) - 5/19/2024 10:57:49 AM
What wise words and new creativity of that beautiful self-portrait have come from your recent brush with unfortunate circumstances.
I have noticed that it is those with the least that give the most when others are in trouble. That says something powerful about who we are as humanity.
Just keep them coming our way. Such a joy to read and view.
Ron
Riddle In The Middle (Poetry) - 5/19/2024 8:52:36 AM
Your talent indeed is finding wealth in paucity. "A heart can break without even stopping". Now that is original and thought-provoking. And I love your salute to opposites (something I try to do as well) as in: "Gracious losing is the best kind of winning." The paradox of your last two lines sums it all up.
Riddle In The Middle (Poetry) - 5/18/2024 3:53:38 PM
I, for one, see the "struggle we're in," yet find through the struggle there is a kind of "talking" that I hold vibrations, whether spoken or sent through allowing, is a connective tissue of mind and heart that for some is fantasy, but for me and poets such as yourself, is actually many levels of reality available to those who allow.
The world of unknowns is available. Yet, far too few access such a phenomenon. Thank you for bringing such monumental meaning in such few words.
Listening (Poetry) - 4/30/2024 11:30:27 AM
While I'm not fond of overly short poems, this one is very poignant and your painting is perfect.
Maybe while I'm listening to old music every night and find myself falling asleep during it, maybe one day when my hearing is gone totally, I won't wake up.
Ron
Listening (Poetry) - 4/30/2024 4:15:44 AM
Your ability to move us with such concise poetic wordsmithing is truly a talent I admire and respect. Coupled with your inspiring paintings, you are truly a gift to this site. I hope you get the readership your work deserves, for it never ceases to motivate this poet. Your "silence disappeared" is inspired. Kudos.
Listening (Poetry) - 4/30/2024 3:10:55 AM
The beauty of paradox is that it highlights the unexpected. That's what we need more of in this day and age. Insightful and unique.
Moon Song (Poetry) - 4/28/2024 8:59:25 AM
Inspiring message as the song unfolds.
Reminded me of one of the favorite songs that I sing to my partner… Moon River.
Ron
Moon Song (Poetry) - 4/26/2024 10:21:40 AM
Brave one that she is, she knows the personal song that heals and brings her home. Lovely words great photo xo
Moon Song (Poetry) - 4/24/2024 5:24:02 PM
Love this. You are the mistress of the cryptic word, packed with meaning, the theory that less is more, an image of the sash ripe with meaning binding the poem together into a unified whole, not to mention the brilliant last four lines.
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/7/2024 11:50:21 AM
Diana: Quietly and softly you have penned a masterpiece!
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/6/2024 11:44:57 AM
A very engaging poem, Diana. Your words provide substance to reflect upon. Love, peace, and blessings to you,
Regis. 🙏🌺
I found a replica of your image here:
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-Lived-Experience-of-Suffering%3A-A-Parse-Research-Pilkington-Kilpatrick/9da6258759c66bbee6642e579a8a9d98b5efaefb/figure/1
Published in Nursing Science Quarterly 2008
The Lived Experience of Suffering: A Parse Research Method Study
Genuflection (Poetry) - 4/6/2024 11:38:15 AM
You provide much to reflect upon with these verses, Diana. Love, peace, and blessings to you,
Regis. 🙏🌸
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/5/2024 11:52:16 AM
Yes, for those who have children there is always worry whether they will prosper or not. With the misfortune will come along their way or they will exceed beyond all expectations. One never real one has reached an age where one can pull a quilt up tight to keep warm and to contemplate all that has gone before.
That photo, that I thought was your artistry, initially, is very apropos for the story that the poem suggests.
Ron
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/4/2024 5:51:52 PM
Again, what lies between the lines and what is left unsaid perhaps plentiful and full of value to complement the comforting symbolic image of the blanket. As you so quixotically ended: "for those with less - and less than none, but nonetheless....." Lovely. Saying so much with so little.
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/4/2024 11:24:02 AM
Indeed. Snuggling and cuddling. Especially near a warming fire, with the one you love, and something hot to drink. A cool print. Thanks for sharing. r
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/4/2024 10:59:44 AM
Greatest gifs are those that were given from the hand, and toiling for it, was the ultimate present of love, its beautiful and so is your poem dear Diana
The Quilt (Poetry) - 4/4/2024 8:46:33 AM
So simple a message to comfort so many complexities that live with us every day. Wonderful painting, I agree. Going to steal it for my collection of screen savers.
Pages (Poetry) - 3/28/2024 10:34:05 AM
As a voracious reader this one really connects with me. Reading has been as much of my life since I was a small boy as breathing has. It has given me comfort, honesty, direction at times but over all an escape that is not an escape.
Thank you for sharing,
Fee
Genuflection (Poetry) - 3/24/2024 2:29:14 PM
All of your words ring with truth, Diana. Write on!!
Love ya!
Jane
Pages (Poetry) - 3/24/2024 2:04:39 PM
Yes! Books are our best friends they are everything your words describe! Diana, there have been books I could not put down. I couldn't put them down and would read until I was finished. I mean, I wouldn't go to sleep even!! Great ink!!
Love ya!
Jane
Pages (Poetry) - 3/24/2024 9:06:56 AM
For those that turn to pages in books this is a perfect poem. Showing how reading helps everyone, not only get through the night, but a better understanding of everything: whether it be fact or fiction.
Lovely to read…
Ron
Pages (Poetry) - 3/24/2024 4:50:39 AM
Perfect. Taking a simple image -- pages -- and making it profound. Love every word of this succinct masterpiece.
Pages (Poetry) - 3/23/2024 1:23:56 PM
A vivid and poetic treatise for truth, for we all know truth can be held back, but its reality, whoever may be holding it, will eventually be exposed. As writers, we perhaps have it easier than others to express such truths and feel relatively safe behind the veil of fiction, and yes, poetry. Honesty, however, knows well the path that often takes further beating down, with more rocky obstructions to remove, even unexpected waters to ward off, but, as you so rightfully point out, as reality and metaphor, the pages, like the many ideas of what comes after death,"they save your place." Loved how you gave the dagger of persuasion a little extra twist with your last line. Bravo... succinct, and meticulous in word choices and phrasing to challenge the doubtful.
And Others (Poetry) - 3/23/2024 7:55:59 AM
What I would call "a mirror poem", reflecting a different light on your previous poem. Well done.
Genuflection (Poetry) - 3/23/2024 7:52:37 AM
a tight weave or words whose message resounds as echoes across the night. So well done, insight and wisdom amid the layers.
And Others (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 12:26:32 PM
While I believe in gently sharing love, I do not believe in any significance of the cross except as a torturer device or the use of bread and wine to symbolize body and blood. All wrong symbols of the Roman Catholic version of Christianity that makes very little sense. Why would anyone in their right mind, want to share eating the body and drinking the blood (symbolically) of someone they love?
But I will gladly share what I have with strangers and the downtrodden, because I can identify with their shuffling, I hope.
Ron
And Others (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 10:33:13 AM
Yes, even as a metaphor, the cloth of truth and the gentle touch of love within their heads. Like the way you indented the message at the end. This is a good companion piece to your previous posting. Readers should pause and think about these thoughts and determine their need to improve in order to become one of the "others."
Genuflection (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 10:08:57 AM
Thank you, Richard, for your response. I value what you have said and respect your points to ponder. The word ‘Some’ has great weight in this writing, with the concept of ‘And Others,’ in their conscientious integrity, being my next post. I look forward to writing it. ~~ djl
Genuflection (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 9:46:29 AM
Such a truthful resonance has this group of sentences that poetically asks us to read, think and feel beyond what might be our first instinct to read and move on. This, however, like most of your postings are deserving of 2nd and 3rd readings, as you inevitably layer your work with multiple meanings. In the case of "Genuflecting," how many such persons do we know, do we respond to, or risk calling them for what they are? Another gem of thought channeled through that needle of your mind, where threading seems so natural and the resultant tapestry of lexiconic erudition is such a reward. Kudos once again.
Genuflection (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 9:45:14 AM
Seems you are targeting Christians. I believe real love is unconditional. It is neither aroused nor diminished by another's opinions, value, behavior, or qualities. It is a spontaneous gift that seeks nothing in return. It's difficult, and perhaps for some an idealism, and perhaps for others impossible, but (in context to the spirit of this piece) perhaps one should learn the song of another's heart, and then sing it back to them when they have misplaced it, or forgotten it. Thanks for sharing. r
Wish (Poetry) - 3/22/2024 5:00:17 AM
Masterful choice of words provide for the unexpected: "Chosen ways of fiery bloom." The task of the poet to dress unique ideas in the rich attire. And coming from one who write more and more, a lesson in the truth that less is more, as noted by Odin. Well done.
Wish (Poetry) - 3/21/2024 4:51:16 PM
You being one of the only poets I stop what I'm doing and read, you never disappoint. Here, you've once again given this reader an insight into what thoughts are often misinterpreted, or ignored for they ask one to think... and think hard. "What might come true" asks we consider the plethora of daily news and history-making action that so often suggests a way to believe when believing is given much of the time disinformation and at worst, character assassination. "One in letters rearranging, one that is a rhapsody. Oh, if more readers truly understood the broad reach of "rhapsody." Such insight. Kudos, my friend. I remain a student trying to get my thoughts into smaller doses like you are so proficient in execution.
The Empty Other Chair (Poetry) - 3/15/2024 3:17:32 AM
Both your words and your art are stunning Diana, the imagery is stark and real and with emotions, we can all relate to. I really enjoyed reading this, have a blessed day, may you never feel lonely. xo
The Empty Other Chair (Poetry) - 3/12/2024 10:59:28 AM
Separation, divorce and death… It's all here for us to contemplate.
Ron
The Empty Other Chair (Poetry) - 3/12/2024 5:47:37 AM
A tight, carefully crafted poem, exquisitely handled. Love the symbolic image (and picture) of the empty chair. Amazing how emptiness can say so much. Beautifully executed. Wish I had written it myself.
The Empty Other Chair (Poetry) - 3/11/2024 4:49:27 PM
Even the pic you've chosen to compliment this poetic venture into the dualism of man and object merge colors and texture of life, the personification of chair and humanness is astounding to read. For many of us, there is identity with this tale of loss. Profound: "What held itself hand-in-hand
through years of change each day,
fragilely amidst the odds
fell slip by slip away__". Your insight into to human fragility is such a gift. Keep it coming, for many of us, it's a lifeline. So rare a talent have you.
Unexpected (Poetry) - 2/17/2024 6:23:49 PM
How one person with the right feeling can change our lives, thank you for sharing your artistic talent, and beautiful precious pen.
Unexpected (Poetry) - 2/16/2024 11:22:44 AM
Too deep for me. Way over my head.
Unexpected (Poetry) - 2/16/2024 7:28:06 AM
Such power and insight in so few words. Lesson learned.
Unexpected (Poetry) - 2/15/2024 1:33:25 PM
Your image is fabulous. But I'm trying to connect it to your poem, suggesting that even the hardened heart can be melted by being treated softly.
Did you receive a Valentine kiss?
Ron
Unexpected (Poetry) - 2/15/2024 8:15:06 AM
What strikes me with this poem is the incredible complement your painting makes upon the poem. The painting dated 2/14/24 suggests both poem and painting grew from an experience where love, kindness and a gentle kiss brought emotions to the surface. To have such an impact on me with 4 short lines was a first. Kudos. Your talent is boundless.
Flowers for Hummingbirds (Poetry) - 1/25/2024 11:38:28 AM
We have little brown birds, a many, around these parts planting seeds for other birds.
But yesterday, I saw a southern wren in my crape myrtle! And was relieved to see such an energetic little bird so infrequently these days.
Your image of the hummingbird is more spectacular than any hummingbird in nature I have ever seen.
Ron
Flowers for Hummingbirds (Poetry) - 1/25/2024 4:30:38 AM
What a delightful and refreshing wordsmithing fllight, allowing readers to reflect on their experience with the small creatures that ask for so little and give so much. This, to me, was the quintessential compliment and acknowledgment of the delicate image and sweet sweet sound so appreciated in this world of chaotic noise. I am gifted with one of the small gems in my backyard and have spent many an afternoon awaiting its arrival to my flower bed. Can't wait for spring and its return. Kudos - Namaste dear friend
Flowers for Hummingbirds (Poetry) - 1/25/2024 4:06:50 AM
Thank you Diana for this beautiful extraordinary prose piece. Hummingbirds are extremely special to me in their love and delicate beauty. They are sent many times to others in supernatural encounters who are in deep sadness distress as I once was. They are symbolic of not just the medicinal symbol of deep joy, they give the knowing they drink the sweetness of life through glorious flower buds, which is something this darkened earth needs right now..
Flowers for Hummingbirds (Poetry) - 1/25/2024 3:47:46 AM
Such a lovely poem about those sweet hummingbirds. Yes, I noticed.
Da (Poetry) - 1/17/2024 9:33:58 AM
Short, but oh so sweet. Those artifacts that rebut so much of your father. Beautifully portrayed the image and also, your words.
The pipe reminded me of my grandfather. My father was a smoker for 20 years, but at 37 stopped in the middle of a pack in the middle of a carton and went cold turkey. He never attempted lightning to strike but I did see him get knocked to the floor trying to fix a power plug one day. ;-)
About my fellow college teachers it became gauche to wear a beard and smoke a pipe. I did neither. The cherry tobacco was certainly enticing to smell but the aftertaste was not.
Ron
Da (Poetry) - 1/16/2024 6:02:12 AM
Touching, insightful, reminds me of my own father who I also still miss and will continue missing until there is no more missing.
Da (Poetry) - 1/16/2024 3:34:23 AM
Ah, I can smell the tobacco from here Diana, he must have been a great great man. He produced a daughter with limitless potential, I love your poetry, take care, may your heart smile today :)
The Take-Over (Poetry) - 1/15/2024 12:35:58 PM
Like Odin, my mind couldn't help but believe that you were referring to a real individual instead of the typical nemesis of the devil in all of us. In your image so artfully done showing the burning of poetry invokes rekindles my thoughts of who you are referring to.
All in all, a beautifully rendered poem of great insight.
Ron
The Take-Over (Poetry) - 1/14/2024 9:13:05 AM
First off, interesting how effective the use of capital letters on the He and Him choices was. I found myself on first reading trying to bring a justification to the gender choice, but in the second reading, it became more apparent to me that the "hunter" image is most closely associated with the male (even exemplified in the opening of 2001 Space Odyssey)and for me, even with some rather "hunter" experiences with my wives--they being the hunters--I chose to allow the more masculine actions to prevail. The work also arrested my preoccupation of late with "time" and how it seems to speed up the process of living, as your piece alludes to as well. Overall, I have to admit, the red-faced, blond, and evil blue-eyed demagogue kept popping up in my mind. Much to conjure in this short and succinct assessment.
The Take-Over (Poetry) - 1/14/2024 3:10:12 AM
Very intense Diana I can see your heart is made up of art that is exquisite and your soul of poetry that is out of this world, I so love to read your thoughts :)
The Crushing (Poetry) - 1/9/2024 6:42:41 PM
It doesn't seem fair does it Diana when life does not balance itself out even worse when love doesn't come out equal, :( so touching the words and the emotion brought forth ,
