Notes About The Poem

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Ghost Writer

Like anything
There are two edges to this sword
The ragged one has, for now, cut too deeply
The reality of its cleaving
And the intent of the hand it is wielded by
Thickens the blood that weeps from its wounds
To collect in a puddle of deep discouragement ... and frustration.

The keen, clean edge shines as always
Kept in precision by the kindness and friendship
Of those whose genuine caring and appreciation of my work
Has been the true motivation of this journey
From the first moments I placed my feet on its path
And I shall treasure it always, held close.

But my weary eyes must turn from the darkness and animosity
The nefarious creatures that move in the shadows
Wend motivations that are contrary to my beliefs and cares
My gaze seeks a bluer sky in day - a more dazzled vault in eventide
A brighter reach to glow and call and stir within
One with hope and encouragement and appreciation
And perhaps, dare I say?
The opportunities of publication and true craft.

Perhaps it is a dream, that
But dreams are what keep us young
Dreams are what push us to keep searching for the righteous path
And striving for the brighter meadows ... the truer stars.

Oh, I will yet be about - a poem here, a contest there, a comment-or-two
But only as the dancing ghost that I have become of late
That I have been told - by indirect fashion - I am
No longer a threat, competitor or antagonist
But a friendly phantom, a role I much prefer ... and affirm to
For after all, ghosts are never missed
Nor are they needed.

Blessings, Dear Poets.





Submitted on February 18, 2020
To the "Strand Select T Any Form Any Theme" Poetry Contest
Brian Strand, Sponsor.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

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Allison Avatar
February 19, 2020 at 4:43 AM
Having read Robert's poem I'm saddened to read your lines Greg - your poetry stands out above the crowds - rise up from the depths and write your wonderful words:-) hugs Jan xx
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:44 PM
You have always been kind to me, Jan. Blessings. <3
Dietrich Avatar
February 11, 2020 at 3:35 PM
by the way, if anyone can publish in a modern journal of poetry, it would be you. have you tried? However, I used to publish in vanity magazines and anthologies which I am sure the authors appearing in them never even read!! I believe for most of us, the only way to ever be truly recognized outside our Soup bubble home is to publish a novel. something I ought to try but I can't even see it happening with how busy I always am!!
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:44 PM
I'm going to try ... somehow. Thanks, Buddy. <3
Dietrich Avatar
February 11, 2020 at 3:32 PM
Dramatic and very emotive metaphor, Greg. I love how you employ metaphors. You are extremely talented at it, as well as being skilled in all aspects of writing poetry. You are a wonderful poet and friend and never a ghost to ME!
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:43 PM
Thank you, Dear Andrea, you will always be my Buddy. <3
Marcum Wong Avatar
February 11, 2020 at 1:56 PM
A poet's gift is in the giving, in being read and appreciated. Your gifts are appreciated by me sincerely. Keep the ink flowing my friend! xxoo
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:43 PM
Blessings, My Dear Poet Friend, Connie. <3
Romios Avatar
February 11, 2020 at 10:38 AM
I do agree with Robert's comment on the massive ego that I feel stalking here. Worse is the Supreme Selfishness I experience here, wherein the best poems receive little recognition And poetry that is idiotic, feeble gets many. I understand fully now why people block all comments. Best you acknowledge you. One can Soupmail a comment. Some collect them like pennies in a jar? As if comments WERE the poem. Eeeks Childish drivel. Panagiota xx
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:42 PM
Blessings, My Friend ... I completely understand.
Lindley Avatar
February 10, 2020 at 9:13 PM
My friend, your poetry always shines of a light born from a true poet's heart and soul. Yes this dark world has many that engage in writing to feed massive ego and some of those attack others to limit the influence they have on doing what is true and right. I sent you a link to an article in a soupmail. God bless...
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:42 PM
Blessings, My Brother - I shall continue as your wing man.
Hamilton Avatar
February 10, 2020 at 9:47 AM
A sad one for sure, you are valued much more than you can imagine, glad to hear you'll be around, please don't leave because of me!
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:39 PM
I wish that were true, John. Blessings, Bro.
Rodrigues Avatar
February 10, 2020 at 7:00 AM
You, Greg, are not a ghost! I see this sight as one where we make friends, encourage one another, share and read. We all want to be read. So I do a great deal of reading and encouraging and hoping that I am encouraged too :)
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:39 PM
Thank you, Kim - you are a gem. <3
Pigeon Tart Avatar
February 9, 2020 at 9:17 PM
I am saddened to read this, at a loss for words. x
Barden Avatar
March 16, 2020 at 6:38 PM
Thanks, Mo ...
Lane Avatar
February 9, 2020 at 7:30 PM
"threat, competitor, antagonist..." insolent words to describe a poet...any poet on a site in which a brother/sisterhood of people should strive to be supportive of one another. How impudent is the mind of one who would infer such things, even by indirect fashion. I don't believe in ghosts either, but if you are now calling yourself a ghost writer, add me to that list, Greg, and let's dance.
Barden Avatar
February 9, 2020 at 7:53 PM
Thank you for this, Lin ... I would dance with you anytime ... anywhere, Dear Poetess. <3
Turner Avatar
February 9, 2020 at 6:12 PM
No place to hide! Besides I don't believe in ghosts.
Barden Avatar
February 9, 2020 at 6:38 PM
LOL - You're part of that shiny edge, Danny - always have been. You were one of the first here to reach out to me, and I'm thankful for you, Bud.
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