Where Do Poets Go

This site has been my haven, where I’ve met
so many poets; neither do I lack
for friends, and some I never will forget
although I know they won’t be coming back.

I’m blessed in that the best friends that I knew
who left the Soup still linger in my mind -
like Nikko, Red or Kash - to name a few,
and these are friends whom I can always find.

I offer one name as example of
a girl who left us, why, and where she went.
Dear Black-eyed Susan, who I came to love,
is one sweet poet who was heaven-sent.

In such a short time that we knew her here,
she sponsored lots of contests, which for me,
were so inspiring, then in about a year,
she discontinued posting poetry.

I know the reasons why she left. One was,
though active here, she soon grew to believe
few cared to comment back, and it’s because
of this, I think that others also leave.

She’d put in so much time with contests for
us all; it seems a shame she didn’t get
more thanks for all that she had done, or
more people taking notice when she left.

Now Susan’s writing poems, but not in rhyme.
She’s joined some groups of tanka and haiku.
She’s published  now and spends a lot of time
with entering and winning contests too.

She’s flourishing in that community.
I miss her, but I email her and know
that she’s just fine, so Friends in poetry,
be kind! I hate to see good poets go!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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K. Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 10:18 AM
Shucks, now I feel even guiltier since I have been so scarce, even in my emails-- I'm so sorry. Hello there sweetie...I'm so touched that you included me here, thank you. Sighs. I really don't know when I will be able to catch up with you properly? I hope I can soon. Susan, I'm sad I wasn't able to interact with her much, she sounds very cool and very talented. I'm happy for her that she found her niche and for all her success. Happy to know to that you lovely ladies get to keep in touch. <3 <3
Ashe Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 8:23 PM
Being new to this I do appreciate the comments from these "GIANTS" and reciprocation is respect! This is an astute observation and a really good write! Write On...just don't stop... Write on! :-)
May Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 8:13 PM
Beautiful write Andrea....Nice tribute to Susan...hugs
Tor Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 8:04 PM
Two of my favorites that I remember were Raul Moreno and Michael Jordan where have they gone. Miss them when I use to read poetry and not write.
Laurie Avatar
March 4, 2016 at 6:11 PM
Hello Andrea ... another fine written poem from you Andrea although with a sad topic. Putting in a lot of work for little gain does often frustrate - Lindsay
Walker Avatar
March 3, 2016 at 7:34 AM
Touching and a tender heart like yours notices this. Love the flow of this Quatrain.
Devnath  Avatar
March 1, 2016 at 7:57 AM
Really a very heartfelt touching poem. Actually on the way by the way in our life we miss many good people in this heavenly like Poetrysoup. i too sometimes think why they leave? and feel sad too my lovely friend, bl
Marcum Wong Avatar
February 29, 2016 at 6:53 AM
It is sad to lose someone who is like family. I feel poets post as often as they can because we all have busy lives. It is good that she has found a group and forms that make her happy.Often they return, so maybe she will too one day. Great writing. Andrea!
Hicks Avatar
February 29, 2016 at 2:46 AM
I left for awhile, but not for lack of friendliness or kindness on the Soup ... but they were for more personal reasons. The Soup is a lot more enjoyable when it feels like community with the bonus of poetry, and it's great that you bring this up.
Yvonne Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 11:04 AM
It is so difficult to write poetry, read poetry, and comment as well. I know with all my problems of late I am guilty of not commenting enough. I read more than I comment on. My life outside of the soup has been so complex. Lately I have been very ill although I emphasize nothing serious. I am in bed though so somewhat restrained. This though is not about me but about poets who feel neglected. I apologize for being a small part of that problem at times. I am going to fav this great write.
Manassian Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 10:18 AM
Oh...this touches my heart....and still they go. It's so sad. It's on thing if they want to pursue a different path, but to be forced off or to feel neglected...those reasons are sad. Thanks for sharing this.
George   Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 9:36 AM
Yes!!! In the early years here at the soup, it was like family. Some of the greats have gone on...Tony Bush, Johnette, Carol Brown, to name a few. They left for somewhat the same reasons. Still...there are many incredible poets here today, you being one of them. Elaine
Allison Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 7:18 AM
People leave the site for many reasons - makes me sad to think there are probably around 30 I can think of who are no longer active - some disappear without trace which is so sad :-( Good luck in the contest:-)hugs Jan xx
Rv Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 4:06 AM
How amazing!! This is such a lovely poem.. All the best in the contest, dear Andrea!! :D :D
Guy Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 3:31 AM
Poets get bored, poets move to anotha site, poets die. That is life!
Vaso Avatar
February 28, 2016 at 12:18 AM
Thankfully the great ones stay, like for example YOU! Hugs!
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