Get Your Premium Membership

The Hero Code: Decoded

Poet's Notes
(Show)

Become a Premium Member and post notes and photos about your poem like Daniel Henry Rodgers.


Citizens of Gotham, Metropolis, NYC, LA, and San Fran, gather 'round! Today's exposé isn't about a villainous plot or a cosmic threat but a discovery closer than you think. Brace yourselves for a revelation – a lifelong resident, Daniel Henry Rodgers, unveils a hidden world nestled within the pages of comic books! Prepare to be transported beyond the glossy sheen for a tale of heroes, adventures, and the profound impact these ink-wrought champions had on a young Daniel's life. Dive into "The Hero's Code: Decoded" and witness the extraordinary journey that begins with a simple comic book panel! As the story unfolds.....

-------

 

 

Enthralled by each panel, a world in my grasp, Comic books whisked me beyond time's clasp. Starlight's soft shimmer, on planets unknown, Myths spun with heroes, on quests all their own. With villains I tangled, with champions I soared, Their powers I mimicked, their wisdom adored. Their struggles, their triumphs, their flaws etched so bright, For justice I yearned, with unwavering might. Batman, the Dark Knight, with gadgets so keen, A silent protector, on Gotham's green scene. Superman, a symbol, a beacon so bold, Faster than greased lightning, a story evolved. Spider-Man's humor, with webs I would swing, Cracking wise as we soared, on laughter's glad wing. By Thor's mighty hammer, a brother in fight, Mjolnir held high, 'gainst darkness and night. Doctor Strange muttered of mystical lore, Spells cast through dimensions, to heal evermore. The Hulk, my defender, with thunderous roar, Smashed foes with a fury, then calmed to the core. Wonder Woman gleamed, in armor so grand, Her lasso of truth, a weapon in hand. The Fantastic Four, a family unbound, Stretched, flamed, and rocketed, futures profound. Aquaman commanded, the ocean's deep hold, Commanded the currents, where secrets are culled Iron Man, the genius, with brilliance untold, Suited for wonders, a future foretold. The Avengers assembled, Earth's mightiest band, Defenders united, a shield in the sand. Threats that loomed closer, they faced as one whole, Diverse and courageous, with a single soul. Maturity murmured, these tales held a key, Gateways to classics, a vast library. Verne's fantastical journey, to Earth's fiery core, Witnessed marvels and perils, forevermore. Dumas' grand vessel, the "Black Pearl" I sailed, The Count's vengeance plotted, Like a phantom on the waves, a story unveiled. Cooper's frontier painted, with warriors so brave, Learned of their struggles, a history to save. Stevenson's island, with treasure enigmatic, Long John Silver's rasping, a legend so dramatic. Les Misérables' sorrow, Moby Dick's chase, Hamlet's despair, on the battlefield's face. Hugo's Revolution, a song filled with fire, Ahab's obsession, a perilous crier. With Homer's heroes, on battlefields grand, Their courage unwavering, for freedom they stand. These frontiers ignited a passion for lore, To delve in the classics, and ache for still more. A reader I blossomed, with genres diverse, A world view expanded, in beautiful verse. Comic books, far more than mere paper and ink, A portal to wonder, a world on the brink. Distant dimensions, a childhood dreamscape, Forever a treasure, a magical space. This world of heroes, my refuge, my guide, Now I step forth, with Nick Fury inside.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.

Please Login to post a comment

Date: 3/30/2024 10:25:00 PM
I really like the grand span where fantasy meets reality. Real life adventure is warned of here. Childhood promises to self should never die. Heroics are not pie in the sky. For those who enter dare. The power of childhoods dreamscape faculty. Fly!
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 4/1/2024 6:30:00 AM
Dear Jude, Thank you so much for your comments to my poem. I was just a huge fan when I was little. Were you a comic reader? - Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/27/2024 1:36:00 PM
A sweeping tour de force poem of the comic world and it's heroes and villains. Quite wondrous, Daniel. March blessings of God to you and your's. ~
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 5:41:00 PM
Dear Regina, how wonderful to see your sweet comments. Comics were a huge part of my formative years. - Blessings, my friend! - Daniel
Date: 3/21/2024 9:28:00 PM
Hi Daniel , your depth of knowledge of the comic world is truly incredible , and to my shame I must admit some of them I have never had the pleasure of, but thoroughly enjoyed reading about them, and I suppose to many they are in themselves the classics of today, the inclusion of Les mis, jules verne, homer, victor Hugo was a masterstroke and totally unexpected . Your rich language beautifully compliments each wonderful verse , exceptional . Daniel
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/22/2024 4:15:00 AM
Hello Daniel, Your generous words fill me with gratitude. I'm glad my poem resonated with you. Your recognition of the blend between classical and comic worlds means a lot. Thank you for appreciating the depth and richness of the language used. Comic books taught me to read so well in the early years. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel
Date: 3/21/2024 6:26:00 AM
Daniel, I love how you include classics in your discussion of heroes and say that comic books honor them. I remember people reading classics illustrated as well...a not so slight diversion of this medium. The artists and illustrators who made the drawings knew how to capture our imagination. The comic books were like storyboards for films. Thank-you for sharing the impact this had upon you. We do want to be like heroes and save the world in some small way perhaps. I am so thrilled by all this.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/21/2024 3:04:00 PM
Hello Duke, your heartfelt response to my poem touched me deeply. Your reminiscence about classics illustrated highlights the timeless allure of heroes in various forms made me smile because most never heard of them. Indeed, artists' ability to evoke imagination in illustrations parallels the power of storytelling. Your words affirm the universal aspiration to make a difference, no matter how small. Thank you for embracing my reflection's essence—it's gratifying. - Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/19/2024 1:49:00 PM
I normally might not like narratives before poems, but you engage us, dear writer! LOL…love those last two lines. We look to Superheroes, knowing of the existence of heroes great and small…mere men…Superheroes help us engage. Blessings!
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/19/2024 6:52:00 PM
Dear Kim, your feedback brings a smile to my face. I'm delighted that despite your usual preference, you found the narrative engaging. I enjoy writing those intros and I am trying to be more creative. Your appreciation for the closing lines warms my heart, as they encapsulate the essence of the poem. Indeed, acknowledging the existence of heroes, both grand and humble, enriches our lives and strengthens our connection to one another. Kim, thank you for your blessings and for sharing your thoughts with me. - Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/18/2024 2:02:00 AM
All children seem to have loved comic books, I included. A great poem well narrated.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/18/2024 5:58:00 AM
Hello Victor, Thanks for the visit and kind comment. You are correct that most children loved comic books; I had over 750 comics, and I know that my reading skills were tops in elementary school, and I attribute it to comics. Thanks again my friend! - Daniel
Date: 3/17/2024 9:12:00 AM
Yes, I loved comic books also -- wish I still had them, stacks of them, with sports cards~ Joe D. and Mantle -- sacrificed to bicycle spokes. Every kid wanted a motor. In super heroes we search for truth and higher power, attempt to define ourselves, liken ourselves in some meaningful way, to the omnipotent. We are lost in myth, we are found in myth...after-all, all comes from our own imaginations. A thoughtful write my friend. Lots of fond memories.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/17/2024 6:15:00 PM
Hello Joe, your nostalgic reflection means a lot to me. The allure of comic books and sports cards, once cherished, now echoes in the corridors of memory. Your insight into the human quest for truth and meaning through superheroes is profound. Indeed, within myth, we find both our lost selves and our boundless potential. Thank you for sharing your fond memories and for appreciating the depth of my poem. - Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/17/2024 8:47:00 AM
You sure know your super heroes. And no one need them more than the cities you mentioned along with a few others I can think of. The one I did not recognize was Nick Fury. Is he your alter ego? An awesome write, my friend
Login to Reply
Dietrich Avatar
Andrea Dietrich
Date: 3/19/2024 1:15:00 PM
oh I remember now about Nick Fury. I wrote about him a long time ago in a contest for Robert!
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/17/2024 6:12:00 PM
Dear Andrea, your astute observation made me smile! Nick Fury, a character steeped in mystery and determination is the main man of the Marvel Group’s S.H.I.E.L.D. Who deploys all the hero’s missions. Your appreciation for my superhero-themed poem warms my heart. Thank you for your kind words and for recognizing the essence of my writing. Your support means the world to me, my friend. - Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/17/2024 3:46:00 AM
Oh my, I wish I owned your library, or at least could place my chair in it for one day, so much good good words, and stories that are as valuable as a precious pearl, thank you for sharing your talent every day the way you do, have a wonderful day poet D !
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/17/2024 6:09:00 PM
Dear Rose, your words uplift my spirit like a gentle breeze on a summer's day. Knowing that my poem have touched you brings joy to my soul. Your appreciation fuels my passion to continue creating poems. Gratitude for your kind support, always. Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 7:01:00 PM
I liked this tribute to comic books. I tended more towards Donald Duck and Scrooge McDuck. I hope you saved your comics. Many are becoming rare.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:22:00 PM
Dear Hilda, thank you so much for your comments. It is funny because I read other comic books such as The Archie’s, Disney, Richie Rich, etc. I didn’t want to make the poem too long. My brother took all my comics years ago although I believe I had over 750 of them. They cost me 10 and 12 cents a piece back then. - Blessings my friend. Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 5:01:00 PM
Wow Daniel, such a pleasure to read and follow along with so many familiar 'hero's' in writing. I didn't expect all the classic characters, but was happily surprised to see them in your poem, too.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:16:00 PM
Hello David, Thank you for your wonderful comments. I wanted to mention that many classic books were adapted into comic books when I was a kid, which is what I was referring to. I'm unsure if they still do that. Blessings, my friend, and thanks again. Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 1:39:00 PM
Dear Daniel, This is such a wonderful testament to the value of comic books and super heroes so beautifully penned. I am going to fav and send to my artist nephew, a big spiderman fan, so he can share with his high school art students. Splendidly done!
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:11:00 PM
Dear Nancy, Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful feedback on my poem! I'm thrilled that you enjoyed it and found value in the themes of comic books and superheroes. It means a lot to me that you're sharing it with your artist nephew and his high school art students. Your support and encouragement are truly appreciated! Blessings, my friend! - Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 9:27:00 AM
I enjoyed the trip down memory lane, by way of your superb writing, Daniel. Heroes are so important to have, be they real or imaginary. An inspiring poem. Blessings. :)
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:09:00 PM
Dear Evelyn, thank you so much for your kind comments and yes hero’s are very important in our lives. Blessings, my friend! Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 7:48:00 AM
Epic narrative Daniel, I find it really hard to keep up with all the superhero stuff, you miss one movie and the next one does not make sense fully.. I agree with your sentiments though, as your poem suggests that the world of comic books is not just a source of entertainment, but also a source of inspiration and guidance, shaping your worldview and instilling in them a sense of courage and determination. It serves as a reminder of the importance of imagination and the enduring legacy of our childhood heroes.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 9:22:00 AM
Dear SO, Thank you so much for your heartfelt reflection on my poem. Your understanding of the deeper meaning behind the superhero narratives is wonderful. It's comforting to know that someone sees beyond the surface of entertainment and recognizes the profound impact these stories have on shaping our lives. Silent One your words truly touched my heart and reaffirmed the significance of embracing our imagination and cherishing the enduring legacy of our childhood heroes. - Blessings, my Friend, Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 7:22:00 AM
"A reader I blossomed, with genres diverse a world view expanded in beautiful verse" A great synopsis of comic book heroes and how they were the gateway for the love of reading, Well penned
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 9:18:00 AM
Hello Joe, thank you so much for your appreciation of this poem. Were you a reader of comics when you were a boy? Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 5:22:00 AM
Much enjoyed reading your enthusiastic journey into comic books and your dedication to the heroes that enchanted hearts and minds, Daniel. Mesmerizing for children and grown ups alike.
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:13:00 AM
Dear Vijay, your words truly touched my heart. I'm thrilled that you enjoyed my poetic exploration of comic books and the heroes within. It's incredibly rewarding to hear that the enthusiasm and dedication I poured into the poem resonated with you. Thank you for recognizing the enchanting appeal of these stories for both children and adults. Your appreciation means a lot to me. - Blessings Daniel
Date: 3/16/2024 12:19:00 AM
I believe that too that comic books are more than just books with characters it is indeed a dreamscape for children and more, so these lines hit the strongest “ Comic books, far more than mere paper and ink, A portal to wonder, a world on the brink. Distant dimensions, a childhood dreamscape, Forever a treasure, a magical space” how well youv described them and summed it all up in your penultimate stanza is beyond soul hitting. Aquaman and so many characters remind me of my son. As i had to watch them with him. I love the flow and rhythm of this and also how you’ve rhymes throughout keeping your lines so neat and catchy. So descriptive and creative too. As always youv dived into the realm of comic heroes to grasp and understand their world better, and its remarkable! Pleasure reading this
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:11:00 AM
Dear Empress, What an amazing Mom! Your heartfelt response deeply touched me. I'm in awe by your connection to the lines about comic books being a dreamscape and a portal to wonder. Knowing that my words evoked memories of your son and your time together watching these characters unfold adds a special layer of meaning to my poem. Your appreciation for the flow, rhythm, and rhymes is incredibly validating, as I strive to create a captivating experience for readers. It means the world to me that you find my exploration of comic heroes remarkable. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for allowing my poem to be a part of your journey. Blessings, Daniel. PS: I watched cartoons with all three of my daughters and loved it!
Date: 3/15/2024 10:28:00 PM
Awesome Narrative poetry, Daniel. A FAV for my list. Very creative way to show a value of comics and the path they may lead the read to, Daniel. I enjoy reading your well woven tale of so many of the superheroes we encounter as youngsters. Many walked the same path as you through their comics then moving on to becoming lovers of reading. Thanks for sharing in an epic way, my friend. Bill
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:05:00 AM
Dear Bill, I'm thrilled that you found my narrative poem resonant and creative in conveying the significance of comics. It's heartening to know that it reminded you of the transformative power of storytelling, especially for young readers. Thank you for appreciating the journey I've portrayed and for your support. Your encouragement inspires me. Blessings, my friend. - Daniel
Date: 3/15/2024 5:14:00 PM
You masterfully captured each of those superheroes lives and qualities. You're right. Comic books are more than paper and ink...even more than a dreamscape...the each complete what's known as 'the hero's journey.' I think that's why many relate to them. I used them frequently when teaching literature because students could see so many literary techniques within the pages..of course, they were engrossed in the stories--stories way better than the ones in their textbook. enjoy your evening Sara
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 7:02:00 AM
Dearest Sara, your insights on my poem mean a lot. I'm glad you appreciated the portrayal of superheroes and their significance beyond mere characters. Your recognition of the hero's journey reflects a deep understanding of storytelling. I loved how you used comic books to engage students in literature, showing them the richness of narrative techniques while captivating them with captivating stories. In elementary school I was always in an advanced reading group and I am sure comic books made that happen. You would definitely be my favorite kind of teacher. Blessings, Daniel
Date: 3/15/2024 3:21:00 PM
My favorite poem you have penned. For those worlds and those characters have colored my own. Their epic journeys and mysteries navigated bygone. We used to wait for the paper versions to arrive on the shelf. And now its the film drops that give them new birth. Personally I think they aged some of the actors off too soon. The cast made the characters real. Thanks for reawakening the memories!!
Login to Reply
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/16/2024 6:57:00 AM
When I was young I went from Superman to Batman to Spiderman to Capt America. Now my favorite as I aged is Dr Strange for sure. Blessings, Daniel
Manley Avatar
Susan Manley
Date: 3/15/2024 7:19:00 PM
Oh and interestingly enough my fav movie was Dr Strange. They made me a huge fan of Benedict Cumberbatch. I really think all of the cast members do a really good job.
Manley Avatar
Susan Manley
Date: 3/15/2024 6:44:00 PM
Oh I am Captain Americas Gal, through and through. Hidden beneath this tortured soul is a paladin. Though I bravo my way with chaotic good, and speak like a 12 year old boy. I am actually a heart of gold and honest and dedicated to the core. I am laser focus on getting things done and my nickname is a force of nature. And its Cap I identify with a slightly out of step ranger.
Rodgers Avatar
Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/15/2024 4:40:00 PM
Dearest Susan, your nostalgic reflection on my poem touches me deeply. It's heartening to hear how those worlds and characters have left an indelible mark on your life as mine. The evolution from paper to film indeed stirs mixed emotions, but your sentiment about the cast and their portrayal is so true. Thank you for sharing your memories and for your kind words of appreciation. I would be curious to know who your favorites were. Blessings, my comic book Friend! Daniel

Book: Shattered Sighs