why

How is the reader to know if you are writing fiction rather than writing about a real event? My question is relevant because poetry accommodates both fiction and non-fiction.

Hi Frederic, don't be dumb-founded - be impressed. It simply means your eloquent word-flow has resonated with that particular reader. It also means they took time to carefully note it's content and that it actually hit a chord within them. It's not everyone can achieve this. All the comments here have confirmed this, so just continue with your writings. I'm an old prodigal son on this site and having just returned. It was your heading " WHY" which grabbed me. I am half way through my 2nd novel and it's named "WHY" - Coincidence or what ? The 1st is with a publishing agent , so I've all 'fingers X'd". So, you write onnnnn. Seán .

I believe there is a little truth in every fiction and a little fiction in every truth

I think it's part of the human equation of concern for the writer that they read. Their piece is so well written that they feel it is real. A credit to the writer to create such a convincing piece. Also people that read sometimes just plainly don't get what someone is trying to convey. Many factors attribute to this conclusion. It could be the readers interpretation or the writers inability to convey. In a perfect world we would all know whether it is fiction or the writers own happening. I dont think any of us who read someone else's poem are 100 percent correct in understanding each poem and determining whether its fact or fiction. Those that do," I am dumb-founded."

Frederic, i can see your point, and if we generalize on the subject there will be many different opinions, BUT, What about the reader? Your poetry may be therapeutic have saved a marriage, a life, or other aspect of what this is all about, would a poet ridicule that, even though what's written is totally one's imagination. Some authors have said they have used some aspects of theirs lives, or ideas from that. Although i think Stephen King, must be suffering from his experiences, Then back to poetry, when thinking of its personal properties, does one believe the poet, when they write a Limerick?

hmmmm, a psychologist would have a field day frolicking in the fields of PS poppydom. :) x such a romantic notion, no footnotes.

use footnotes. I do all the time in case people like I'm telling truth about something I do NOT want them to think is true!!

and yet many 'poets' like to go on about 'truth'...I find it irritating when they insist its fictional....

I like what Craig said.

Frederic, many poems are based on a poets life but some are fiction so if a poet is a good writer as you are the poems can be very convincing, I have seen some poets write "fiction" at the bottom of their poem, perhaps that could clear up any unwanted comments _Constance

It's a compliment actually, your writes are convincing!

Dear Frederic, all I can say is this. Many post actual moments that have occurred in their life, while others post from their imagination. Sometimes it is difficult to know which is real and which are just images created. Most of the time I can tell the difference, but not always. ~ Brandy