Criticism

critique not asked as serpent rises from the jealous swamp.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Lamoureux Avatar
July 19, 2025 at 2:25 PM
It’s best to avoid offering Criticism. Praise is far more effective.
Greenhough Avatar
July 19, 2025 at 3:24 PM
I agree. Criticism can be used by others to suppress success. Thanks for reading.
George Avatar
April 6, 2025 at 9:31 PM
Yes, they rise at unexpected time from unexpected corners and attack us like serpents. Great monoku, dear Hilda.
Greenhough Avatar
June 1, 2025 at 7:12 AM
Thank you for your comment.
Jones Avatar
March 28, 2025 at 12:50 AM
Love this!
Greenhough Avatar
April 2, 2025 at 7:53 PM
Thank you. Just words of wisdom.
Neumann Avatar
March 14, 2025 at 2:06 AM
Venomous in a positive way ...XXX
Greenhough Avatar
March 14, 2025 at 6:34 PM
Not too positive. Most of us realize we made a mistake. Life doesn't have to be perfect. But I do like snakes, so this is no reflection on reptiles.
Leach Avatar
February 28, 2025 at 10:01 AM
This monoku has a strong bite to it--there’s a sharpness in the imagery that makes it stand out. The phrase "serpent rises from the jealous swamp" gives the feeling of unwanted criticism slithering in, uninvited and venomous.
Greenhough Avatar
February 28, 2025 at 3:02 PM
There is some truth in what you say. I believe that Poetry Soup states that we are not to give derogatory comments to each other. To bite, or not to bite, that is the question.
DiMino Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 8:47 AM
Well, as a great man once said: to have detractors means, you are doing something right! I write for the joy, encouraged by the good comments...deeply analyzing the snide ones, which usually are only exposing the writer's own insecurities. A few words, but wisely put. Thank you, Hilda.
Greenhough Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 9:21 AM
Thank you. The philosophy rings true.
Williams Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 8:32 PM
I hear you dear Hilda. Part of the reason why I left in 2019 was because so called constructive critism was sounding more like destructive critism. I didnt need that in my life. All the best, and take care...Hugs
Greenhough Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 9:05 PM
Well, I hope you come back and keep writing. Like most people, I have good poems and not so good ones. I usually realize after a few reread, but I'm not always at the top of the mark. Thank you for your encouragement. Keep writing.
Rodgers Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 8:43 AM
Dear Hilda, your words cut straight to the heart of things, so sharp, yet full of truth. I love the way you capture the danger of unwarranted critique, that sneaky serpent. Yes, we need to be mindful of where we speak from, and the motives behind our words. Excellent! Winter Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel
Greenhough Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 9:29 AM
Thank you. Your words always rejuvenate my enthusiasm.
Empress Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 2:35 AM
I get that alot dear hilda, sometimes we dont need criticism, or a response, but just a listening ear. Not sure if some criticize out of envy, seems more like their need to feel good about themselves. I love the way you’ve written this monoku and your word choices too in this, so powerful and poetic! Pleasure reading this. Sending you light always
Greenhough Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 6:06 AM
Thank you for commenting. I guess there are two ways, constructive and destructive. I'm still learning.
Romios Avatar
February 24, 2025 at 4:47 PM
It just happens! Keep writing. No matter what, criticism comes our wat when least expected Smike, theank them Pangie xx
Greenhough Avatar
February 24, 2025 at 5:41 PM
I'm enjoying freedom of speech. Thanks for visiting. Pax America.
Wolf Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 8:01 PM
That 'swamp of jealousy' is another one that needs to be cleared out! But this one is p to each and every one of us... Commandment #10: Do not covet!
Greenhough Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 9:25 PM
That sentence is also in the Bible. I'm glad to hear it again. Perhaps it means have gratitude for the life God gave. Opportunities abound.
Buhagiar Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 5:34 AM
When not asked for criticism is useless.
Greenhough Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 6:03 AM
You're correct. Thank you for your encouragement.
Rodrigues Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 4:26 AM
Interesting one to ponder.
Greenhough Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 6:02 AM
Oh, monokus. I rarely write them. I ponder too.
Singh Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 3:00 AM
A theme of self protection against external judgement and the recognition of how envy can breed conflict or danger.Deep and profound
Greenhough Avatar
February 23, 2025 at 3:36 AM
Thank you.
Theraven Avatar
February 22, 2025 at 8:57 PM
Hilda, Curious Monoku. What an ordeal in affirmation. -Richard
Greenhough Avatar
February 22, 2025 at 8:59 PM
Thank you.
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