Overflow

The phrase “bleached blonde sunset that arrogates my depression” tries to mix an emotional state with a visual image, but the connection isn’t very clear. “Arrogates” is a strong word that might be too complex or unusual in this context, it distracts rather than helps the meaning. It’s hard to picture how a sunset could “take over” or “claim” someone’s depression. A more familiar word or a clearer image could make the emotion easier to feel. “I’ve outgrown the inability to smile at the joke with no punchline” points to emotional growth, which is a nice idea, but it feels a bit abstract. What does the “joke with no punchline” really mean in the speaker’s life? Giving a real example or clearer emotion could help the reader connect more deeply. “Listening to the noise on the radio is enough to bring anyone to an emotional crash” is relatable: many people feel overwhelmed by background noise or chaotic thoughts, but calling it “noise” is vague. What kind of noise? Music? Talk shows? News? A more specific detail could make the emotional effect stronger. The line “My phone weighs much less without the numbers that did not belong in the first place” is a good metaphor, it captures the relief of cutting off unnecessary connections. It works well, but it could be even more powerful if the poem explained what those numbers represented, were they toxic friendships? Past relationships? The ending lines “I’ve found nirvana in making a new best friend in myself. Turn inward for inner peace and the rest will fall into place” have a calm, hopeful tone. But the last sentence feels more like advice than poetry. It sounds like a motivational quote, which might weaken the emotional honesty of the poem. It would be stronger if the poem showed how the speaker came to that peace, rather than just stating it. In general, your poem shows a journey toward healing and self-acceptance, which is powerful. To make it more effective, try using simpler, clearer images and avoid abstract or philosophical phrases that feel distant. Show the reader what you feel, rather than telling them what to believe. Here is a sharp version of your poem with all my recommendations: The Radio Sings Like a Window Left Open The sunset looks like cheap hair dye in a mirror with toothpaste stains. It doesn’t cure anything, just stretches across the sky like a sigh someone forgot to finish. I’ve stopped waiting for the punchline. The joke is the day itself. You laugh once, maybe out of habit, then go wash the dishes. The radio makes noise like a pan falling in the room next door. No music, just voices, as if the world is trying to tell me something important, but keeps choking on its own spit. My phone is lighter now. I deleted the numbers that never picked up when I cried. It sleeps better, and so do I. Today, I shook hands with myself. We were both surprised. We sat on the edge of the bed, ate some dry bread, and talked about silence. Peace didn’t come like a parade. It came like a dog that curled up near my feet and didn’t ask for anything. With hope & sincerity, Florin Lacatus