Critiques

When offering advice, it’s best, So you won’t be forsaken, To ponder just exactly how Your guidance might be taken. For uninvited judgment, Even said with good intent, Might be something the recipient Could very well resent. Critiques, although constructive, Often stick in someone’s craw; Not everyone appreciates The spotlight on a flaw. So I’d tread very lightly, My objections kept inside, ‘Cause a wound to someone’s ego Might be all that I’d provide.

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Allan Koven

Date: 9/18/2013 9:47:00 AM

Ilene, Loved it. Beautifully said and so true. Don't we all fall into the trap at times?

Robert Johnson

Date: 9/15/2013 3:15:00 PM

Critique's, mistiques and misconstruing's. Can surely squeak and cause undoing's. The best that all of us can do. Is just be kind when day is through. Peace. :)

Just That Archaic Poet

Date: 9/14/2013 9:40:00 AM

I think my reviews of Ilene's two poems "A Luxury" and "The Best Laid Plans" are getting misconstrued here. I implore anyone who suspects I was being unkind to read the feedback I left on those two pieces. Not only did I compliment her work, I offered what I considered to be helpful suggestions (not corrections) to make a good poem even better. I do not want to be perceived as villainous in this unfortunate matter. It was never my intent to embarrass or be hurtful; never.

Just That Archaic Poet
Date: 9/14/2013 9:42:00 AM

So please do not think ill of me until you have read my reviews of those two pieces. I never uttered one unkind or disparaging word.

Jack Ellison

Date: 9/14/2013 8:52:00 AM

WOW So well said Ilene! If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all! It may unintentionally wound someone's ego... very well said! Hugs, Jack xoxox

Just That Archaic Poet
Date: 9/16/2013 4:16:00 PM

The funny thing is, that even when something is said nicely, politely, and helpfully, it still bruises an ego, even when it is wrapped in compliments. 'Tis unfortunate, and also baffling.

Louise Holley

Date: 9/14/2013 4:14:00 AM

I love this so very true, well written great advice. x

Karen Anglesey

Date: 9/13/2013 8:41:00 PM

In my opinion good poetry is subjective. Poetry is simply writing that evokes emotion. There are parameters in rhyme and meter that either make the entire poem flow well... or not. Constructive critiques are always welcome on my page. I do not know how one grows without feedback whether good or indifferent...your poem has creative content :)

Just That Archaic Poet
Date: 9/14/2013 9:27:00 AM

Could not agree with you more, Karen :)

Jon A Cavanaugh

Date: 9/13/2013 6:48:00 PM

Wow, You just keep coming up with these gems. And you make it look so easy. I don't know how you do it.

Just That Archaic Poet

Date: 9/13/2013 4:16:00 PM

I feel daggers aimed right at me. Sorry if you feel like I'm being critical; my intention is only to be helpful. When we post our work, we invite judgment (I thought that was a given?). In any event, this is a well-crafted rebuttal that I feel is aimed at me. Look at it this way: you wrote a great piece in response. I thought we were all here to share our work, get feedback, and grow as artists. My critiques were never meant to be hurtful or harmful, and if you took offense, that's unfortunate.

Just That Archaic Poet
Date: 9/14/2013 9:29:00 AM

I'm glad someone agrees with me; thanks, Karen! :)

Louise Holley
Date: 9/14/2013 4:24:00 AM

The way i see it is that we write our work with our own passions and unique perspectives, like we live our lives. It is not for another person to correct or change how a person views the world, lives their life or words their poetry unless the other person is asking for advice. Poetry is not a perfect science it is a window to a persons heart and mind.

Karen Anglesey
Date: 9/13/2013 8:46:00 PM

When your comments are well intended, you have accomplished the purpose of the review/rating process. If your comments are unappreciated, then that is really not your problem :) ~K