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11/26/2025

I closed out the 2025 Poetry Marathon with a fun Poetry Marathon poem inspired by Walt Whitman (1819-1892), and his famous poem, “O Captain! My Captain!” I originally published this in my "2025 Poetry Marathon FINISH LINE !!!" Blog post on 11/21/2025.

Each of my Marathon tribute poems is a transformative homage to a literary classic — much like a parody or pastiche. I always credit the original poet and work, and the new poem stands as a creative reinterpretation with its own theme, imagery, and tone.

i have included my Marathon-themed poetry in my Poetry Marathon blog posts since 2019, usually at the end of the blog posts, but never posted them to my poetry page, until now.

Fun Marathon Poetry Inspired by Walt Whitman

O Sponsor! My Sponsor! Our marathon’s undiminished
The number 1 rule is satisfied, for all of us have finished!
The rankings are clear, the comments sincere—a poets’ celebration,
While eyes peruse the final list, the roster of champions!
           But O fatigue! fatigue! fatigue!
               27 contests have taken their toll
                  In welcome repose our Sponsor chose
                     Three years' rest ere the next marathon roll

funpoetrypoetsrhyme

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Paula Goldsmith

November 26, 2025 at 11:40 AM

I enjoyed reading your fun write. Sounds like you need a long rest. Hope you do this next year, then maybe I can play along. Have a blessed/wonderful day writing away.............

Mark Toney

November 26, 2025 at 12:15 PM

I’m glad you enjoyed it, Paula. There has been a three-year gap between each of the first three Marathons, but you and some others have encouraged me to shorten the span. It always makes be happy when you stop by, Paula. Write on!

Mark Toney

November 26, 2025 at 10:25 AM

I closed out the 2025 Poetry Marathon with this poem. Each of my Marathon tribute poems is a transformative homage to a literary classic — much like a parody or pastiche. I always credit the original poet and work, and the new poem stands as a creative reinterpretation with its own theme, imagery, and tone.

Fun Marathon Poetry Inspired by Walt Whitman

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