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A Word of Advice

God forbid that I should offer a word of advice On how one might make a mediocre poem sublime Or to suggest that fewer words might as well suffice Tell me once and you’ve no need to tell me twice. written September 24, 2021

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Caren Krutsinger

Date: 9/27/2021 9:46:00 PM

On another site when I get a "suggestion" I always know I am going to click on it and it is going to say "new poet". And I have not been disappointed yet; this poem made me smile - remembering that.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 9/28/2021 8:23:00 AM

I'm convinced, overall, that poets are a thin-skinned lot. I take suggestions very seriously, and I don't mind them unless they are frivilous or nasty or nitpicky. In fact, I appreciate them, and I will often edit a poem to reflect a suggestion.

Juanita Oosthuizen

Date: 9/26/2021 3:30:00 PM

Short but sweet and wise

L Milton Hankins
Date: 9/26/2021 3:35:00 PM

Thank you, Juanita. But, right on target!

John Lawless

Date: 9/25/2021 5:55:00 AM

If advice could be given in one word....

L Milton Hankins
Date: 9/25/2021 8:31:00 AM

It can, John. DON'T!

Jan Allison

Date: 9/25/2021 5:42:00 AM

once bitten twice shy eh Milton:-( hugs Jan xx

L Milton Hankins
Date: 9/25/2021 9:55:00 AM

Yep, I learned the hard way. You know, I always appreciate when someone gives me good advice, but I learned to be very careful about giving advice. And, certainly, avoid it on Poetry Soup. If I can't say something very nice and thoughtful, I don't comment at all. I learned the hard way that this is NOT a poetry seminar!

Caycay Jennings

Date: 9/25/2021 4:02:00 AM

Some advice is good to ponder and some is born of people's ignorance, but, either way it is the speaker who owns the words, not the designated 'target' for lack of a better word. Well written and thought provoking ... CayCay

L Milton Hankins
Date: 9/25/2021 9:57:00 AM

Thanks, CayCay. It's good to hear from you, and I appreciate your thoughts, opinions, advice, and understanding!