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That Decrepit Old Man

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'Decrepit' Poetry Contest

Sponsor Constance La France
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In the dog days of summer, the kids discover a decrepit house and the old man (Rentaro Mikuni) who lives there alone. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 4 Feb. 2025 He was an old decrepit man, was he not? His clothes tattered; his trousers held by a knot. Few rooms: a chair, a table and rotten cot. He lived in an old ruined house, full of rot. His clothes tattered; his trousers held by a knot. He ate sparsely of some fish he sometimes bought. He lived in an old ruined house, full of rot. Rarely some good older soul, some meat she brought. He ate sparsely of some fish he sometimes bought. Winter was too cold whilst summer was too hot. Rarely some good older soul, some meat she brought. Children loved his stories and explained each thought. Winter was too cold, whilst summer was too hot. Few rooms. a chair, a table and rotten cot. Children loved his stories he explained each thought. He was an old decrepit man, was he not?

Copyright © | Year Posted 2025




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Date: 6/8/2025 7:05:00 AM
Well-done. I like the imagery and rhyme.
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Date: 6/6/2025 1:58:00 AM
Pantoum is a difficult poetic form. Yet you have done it with great panache. A sure winner of the contest, dear Victor.
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Date: 6/5/2025 4:36:00 AM
Enjoyable write! The man did not have much, but he had some stories to tell, and he was patient to explain. Very nice!
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Date: 6/4/2025 7:49:00 PM
Dear Victor, this poem has a haunting quality to it. The contrast between his poverty and the children's appreciation for his stories is particularly striking. It's a powerful commentary on the human experience and the ways in which people can find connection and joy despite difficult circumstances. It's a thought-provoking and moving piece that lingers with the reader. Best, Anne
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Date: 6/4/2025 5:51:00 AM
Dear Victor, I love how you show loneliness with such gentle dignity with each repetition a softness in that ruined house. Oh, the solitude, the small kindnesses, and the magic children find in old stories. Your lines circle back like memory, making the old man’s world feel both fragile and quietly enduring. Poetry can turn even decay into something deeply human and memorable. Spring Blessings, My Dear Victor, Daniel
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Date: 6/3/2025 10:27:00 PM
Impressive how you did this pantoum style. I really like it.
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Date: 6/3/2025 2:46:00 PM
Ahh!! Wonderful story with meaning written in this poem. I enjoyed reading it. He gave back with what he had which is awesome. Sara K
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Date: 6/3/2025 10:52:00 AM
Interesting- I feel so sorry for the old man, though
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Date: 6/3/2025 10:01:00 AM
What an awesome entry for the Pantoum contest, an entry with substance, thought and talent, GOOD LUCK DEAR FRIEND. Hugs, blessings Jennifer.
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Date: 6/3/2025 3:10:00 AM
Hi Victor, As always, in whatever form, you manage to put across a wonderful story. It is sad to read of this old man. You know, you can read this wonderful pantoum and think, There By The Grace Of God." Good luck in the contest my friend.Reality sings from your pen ..... Mike.
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Date: 6/3/2025 3:07:00 AM
Oh its been a while since iv last read a pantoum dear victor, i really love the way youv used the prompt and written one that is so soulfully moving! I especially love the lines "Few rooms. a chair, a table and rotten cot. Children loved his stories he explained each thought. He was an old decrepit man, was he not?" I would like to read or hear him tell his stories, i felt so strongly reading this pantoum! Pleasure visiting your page today! Best wishes! Sending you light always
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Date: 6/2/2025 5:03:00 PM
- Poor old man... skillfully written, Victor :) - Best wishes in the contest - hugs
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Date: 6/2/2025 4:29:00 PM
Hi Victor; story well told. Worse things than being old and decrepit...would not trade for young and stupid again:) Excellent write!
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Date: 6/2/2025 1:05:00 PM
Awesome, just awesome! You painted a Xlear picture with words. Your repition od lines , i thoughtwas soperb, a Fav from me,, Victor! Pangie xx
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Date: 6/2/2025 12:13:00 PM
Victor, I enjoyed this tale of a poor old man, loved by children. Good luck in the contest. :)
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Date: 6/2/2025 11:14:00 AM
I enjoyed reading your wonderful "That Decrepit Old Man" write/story. Thanks for your note. So Sorry.... What a great picture you have. "Good Luck" I also did this one. Have a wonderful day writing away...............
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