Don'T Be That Way

“Don't be that way”
someone said
right from the very start

"You can't write that-
not that way
it's too depressing and dark"

"Although, this one
might be okay...
if you just took out that part"

"But that- oh no!
it's much too silly
and not “real” serious art"

Never understanding
that perhaps, those words 
were meant for another's heart

So before you let them
oh-so-casually
rip your words apart

Know it's quite okay
to do things your way
and not give a fiddler's fart!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

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Goff Avatar
October 27, 2018 at 6:46 PM
Definite yes...Rhona...in my almost 10 yrs here I have many times respectfully rejected suggestions meant to improve my art...with a smile! just one problem...I am me and no one else...ain't gonna count on my poems-for-pay...been published (yawn) I pleased a couple senior lady friends and family members of my family, wrote poems they loved before passing...what more is life?
Mcferran Avatar
October 27, 2018 at 9:52 PM
Thank you for the lovely comment! I'm glad you stayed true to your art! ;)
Faulkner Avatar
October 27, 2018 at 3:13 PM
When I was younger, I had an English teacher tell me my poems were too 'superficial and silly' and I should try harder to write 'real' poetry - I carried that with me for over twenty years before I let it go - thank you for this reminder!
Mcferran Avatar
October 27, 2018 at 6:29 PM
You're so welcome! Yes, one of my parents was critical of my work, as well. They actually once told me to destroy one of my paintings because they found it too depressing!! I just rolled it up and stored it away... Anyway, I'm SO VERY GLAD that you didn't let that awful teacher keep you from writing and expressing whatever your heart desires- because you are amazing, my friend! ;)
Krutsinger Avatar
October 26, 2018 at 12:02 AM
Rhona, your poems are beautifully HONEST. That is what I love about them, and this one is no exception. Be true to your soul's vision, my friend; that is why we write. No one can write a Rhona poem but Rhona. Well done!
Mcferran Avatar
October 26, 2018 at 3:49 AM
Thank you, my friend! Being honest & 'true to your soul's vision' is what I love about your poetry, (and you) too! ;)
De Beaulieu Avatar
October 25, 2018 at 2:02 PM
Hello Rhona, right on!!! Write your poetry the way you want. Only you can change what you create. If someone does not like what you created, that is their problem, not yours. have a nice day my friend.
Mcferran Avatar
October 25, 2018 at 3:06 PM
Yes, that is my feeling, as well! ;) Thank you so much for the kind comment!!
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