Notes About The Poem

2026-05-02 MINGLE Poetry Contest

Sponsored by: Constance La France

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Mingle

"I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning how to sail my ship." — Louisa May Alcott.

The rain and sleet mingle together.
     Wayward winds weigh me down,
     Wetting my poor old clothes thoroughly.
I walk alone through deep pools,
How can I not be shivering in the storm?

The wraithlike winds increase the wetness of my face,
Water seeps down my tattered clothes.
      I curse the closed shops and unsheltered houses.
      How can I survive this miserable downpour?
Dark Cimmerian clouds cover the whole city.
The forces of weather mingle thoroughly.
          I find no respite in such a mingle of a cyclone.

Let thunder wreak havoc in the hurricane,
I’ll find my strength by hook or by crook.
     I’ve learned there is a shelter I’ll find,
     A change of clothes, a purge of soul:
A mingle of hope, survival, and resilience
That somehow will cleanse my heart and teach it love.


Placed 1
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

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Etgen-Baker Avatar
May 11, 2026 at 4:52 PM
I appreciate the courage within your poem; especially liked the last few lines.
Empress Avatar
May 9, 2026 at 8:27 AM
I sense and feel resilience and strength amidst all here dear victor, you always paint imagery so well and in such a descriptive manner that is truly engaging and moving! I really love the ending here, and mingle is a brilliant word, which iv never used in a poem before. I love your choice of quote and also the way youv written “I walk alone through deep pools, How can I not be shivering in the storm?” I alwayz feel questions more in a poem. Pleasure reading you. Sending you light always. Fave
Allison Avatar
May 8, 2026 at 3:56 PM
great interpretation of the mingle theme and i love the uplifting ending Victor! hugs Jan xx
DiMino Avatar
May 8, 2026 at 5:47 AM
God sends us what we need, not to punish us...but to teach. Sometimes we need a severe bump on the head -- or storm. We really are in control. The reason for eternity. Great poem, Victor. Made me think deeper. Oh, a FAV for this fine work.
Hind Avatar
May 7, 2026 at 6:23 PM
This is very resilient sounding...well done for the contest!!
Edmonds  Avatar
May 7, 2026 at 2:21 PM
Dear Victor, when you’ve walked through a storm and have arrived safely home, you realise you never walked alone. There’s someone out there who mingles with you, seeing you safe till your door is shut to… Beryl
Anaya Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 5:10 PM
When the world is upside which way is north, you seem to have found your through the hardships of life, great imagery. A dramatic verse & best for a top win. May blessings
Buehler Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 3:46 PM
Spiritual strength is a powerful match against the storms of life. I love the way you've woven this tale, Victor. Best wishes for the contest.
Legros Kelley Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 3:37 PM
Your poem paints vivid pictures, Victor, well done!
Roper Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 3:32 PM
Enjoyed reading your poem of a storm the great idea for the word mingle. Storms make me nervous. I’ve always been afraid of lightning and heavy rain. Roper always enjoyed the sound of rain. This is a good poem for a win. Good luck hugs.
Sands Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 1:32 PM
Great poem Victor. I like how you used Mingle too. It is downpour rain here today. :)
Goldsmith Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 12:09 PM
Your "Mingle" is a wonderful read/write/story with a great picture. I have been in a number of very bad storms. One was when my dad opened the car door then water came running out. "Good Luck" I also did this contest. Have a great/fun day writing away.......
Dietrich Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 10:07 AM
Wow. Impressive how you used the idea of mingle in two different ways. Very nicely done
Poet Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 8:35 AM
Seeking solace in shadows feels so sorrowful. Though drenched in droplets, your heart still shines softly. A glorious jewel for the contest.
Rodrigues Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 5:32 AM
Yes, storms will do that, if we hold onto patience and peace of mind. Hugs
George Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 5:04 AM
An unexpected cyclone can drench us. Finding no shelter in such a time is so miserable. Though your body is soaked in water, your spirit stays warm. A great entry for the contest. All the Best dear Victor.
Kendrick Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 4:11 AM
This one reads like a good contender to me for the contest, Victor. I like it. Way to go. Sara K
Greenhough Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 2:46 AM
Your words went to my heart. It seemed so real that I began to worry about you out in the rain and cold. Good luck with the contest. I'd give you an A+.
Cunningham Avatar
May 6, 2026 at 1:16 AM
Love your interpretation of the contest theme Victor, everyone I've seen has interpreted it diffently. Good luck in the contest. Enjoy your week head. Tom
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