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Sincere Suggestions

I have wondered what Poetry Soup would be like If poems submitted were subject to critical eyes And contributors were free to critique the poems, To say how they really feel about a poem, to analyze. Of course, it cannot be, for we are a thin-skinned bunch Often our feelings are hurt by the slightest correction And, I am of the opinion having been here for a while We all think we are so fantastic, we need no inspection. Well, I, for one, realize my poetry would be much better If I had the opinion of those who could read me critically Not those who would merely wish to tear me down, But who would help me become a better poet, literally. I would welcome those kinds of sincere suggestions Although, I must warn you, I don’t accept advice so well So, be careful how you approach my best efforts, I know my poems would improve if they laid aside a spell. With this being said, let’s continue to be kind to each other Appreciating each other’s comments and camaraderie, But, if you see an obvious mistake in one of my offerings Do not hesitate! Please, by all means, point it out to me. Written November 27, 2022

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Ilene Bauer

Date: 11/28/2022 1:10:00 PM

well said, milton! i don't really think this is the right venue for making suggestions - just my opinion - but i do very much appreciate it if someone points out a typo. i think a writing class would be better for people looking to improve their work. i guess i'm one of the "thin-skinned" ones, but i would bristle if someone suggested any changes in a poem i posted (and it has happened on occasion)...

L Milton Hankins
Date: 11/28/2022 7:07:00 PM

Oh, I wholeheartedly agree with you, Ilene. This is not and was never meant to be a writing class. But, I did so enjoy writing and poetry classes in college, and I learned so much. I've also enjoyed the poetry clubs I've belonged to in the past.

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 11/28/2022 11:34:00 AM

I chuckled at this one "We all think we are so fantastic, we need no inspection."

L Milton Hankins
Date: 11/28/2022 12:24:00 PM

I think this is basically true, Caren. Lots of ego here.

Jenna Logan

Date: 11/27/2022 1:45:00 PM

I’ve responded in the same way that Tom does. It’s the best way to alert a fellow poet about an error. In reverse, I’ve been privately informed about my mistakes. I don’t mind constructive criticism. Good to know, Milt.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 11/27/2022 1:50:00 PM

Thank you so much, Jenna. As you know, I do welcome improvements when offered in a constructive spirit, and I will not hesitate to change a poem to make it better.

Tom Cunningham

Date: 11/27/2022 1:09:00 PM

I always try and point out an error but do it discreetly by soupmail, others point my typos by the same means and I do appreciate it. But you never know how folks will react as you pointed out, if someone jumps down my throat it's the last soupmail they'll get off me lol. Tom

L Milton Hankins
Date: 11/27/2022 1:23:00 PM

And rightly so, Tom. Poetry Soup has established a reputation for thoughtful, respectful genteelity. I like that. I do, however, appreciate a helpful Soup Mail when someone sees something I obviously missed. I also flee from those rude people who have no tact!