the REVIEW (our craft)

Quatrains in Iambic Pentameter

the REVIEW

Reviewing is an art few master well …
the ones who do, pass on our art intact,
inspiring 'long the way whom they might tell,
because they realize the cards are stacked.

For every poet reached in a review,
so many more are left upon the page,
complaining how their work was torn into;
such is the fodder of indignant rage.

So many verses I’ve critiqued when read,
on many more there’s never left a word.
Thus, passed on by, left as they were, instead,
for reasons some may think are quite absurd.

Shhh! Listen well, you might just understand:
I may say nothing if there’s too much wrong,
or if a poet feels they’re highly grand;
and, never when a writer is not strong.

When sensitivity controls the mind,
it cannot grasp a lesson that’s been shared;
nor, can it know reviews are not unkind;
critique was left because someone had cared.

Most share for praise and pats upon the back,
while fewer really wish for honesty.
They tout for help, not that their poems lack;
if told they do, give thanks with brevity.

See? That which makes reviewing so worthwhile,
are those rare few who never will abscond;
instead, take everything to heart and smile,
correct mistakes, then graciously respond.

Through issues all corrected they transcend,
form bonds with other poets 'long the way …
thus, learning well from those who comprehend;
these best will pass along our craft one day.

So, be prepared when those who light the path
hold high their lanterns bright that you might see;
inside your poets’ hearts resist all wrath …
one day your skills will know high mastery.


Richard W. Jenkins
© 2015

Author's Note

During my earnest and sincere efforts to help my fellow-poets correct issues in their poetry and better their skills, seems my praise and encouraging comments somehow got missed or disregarded, and in result I've inadvertently raised the ire of a fine poet; thus, I thought it best to make my take on reviewing known, and to make it clear what my motives generally are when giving a review.

Constructive critique for my poetry is always welcome and preferred. ; )

Reviews

[emipoemi]

Un - be - lie - vable! This is exactly what I stand for! So many divas have blocked me because they didn't want to be told their work needs fixing up.....and I, too "say nothing if there's too much wrong." My friend, you are a poet in the flesh. You can definitely use some tweaking on some rather banal grammatical aspects, as well as when and where beats should land (one line in this one has "someone" landing on the wrong sylLAble....but that also might simply be dialectal). This is otherwise fantastic! True to form and message! Well freaking done! (also love the Mickey Holmes image).

[Richard🖌]

Thank you for reading this piece … I really enjoyed the content and depth of your own poem, "Critique" addressing this same issue.
Seems we are on the same wavelength when it comes to reviewing and learning from those who have been there before us, lighting the way, teaching others how to lay their own foundation to build their endlessly various and creative poetic edifices upon.
The word "someone" in its static state is actually spondaic (dead) in stress, allowing it to be used either trochaic or iambic, depending on its intended inference, as in this piece "SOMEone" (ANyONE/SOME uNIQUE one, etc).
"Banal"?
Definition: trite, hackneyed, clichéd, platitudinous, vapid, commonplace, ordinary, common, stock, conventional, stereotyped, overused, overdone, overworked, stale, worn out, timeworn, tired, threadbare, hoary, hack, unimaginative, humdrum, ho-hum, unoriginal, uninteresting, dull, uninvolving, trivial; informal old hat, corny, cornball, played out; dated dime-store; rare truistic, bromidic.
Ha-HAH! I think I'm beginning to understand how you might have gotten blocked by some few of the more sensitive … LOL!
The spirit of this piece is not to be "original", but to deliver a message in lawman's terms, to convey a definite idea to everyone who reads it. As you say, not all is about technicality, SOMEthings must be understood by feeling, eh?
The Mickey Mouse image: See what I mean by a picture or illustration helping set the mood? I was looking for something appropriate to represent the idea of what I was going to say, to help set a lighter mood/ambience, and accidentally came across it when I typed images for investigating into my Google search bar … saw it and knew it was just right.
Glad you found good favor in this one, and I always appreciate your candid commentary, too … I have learned as much (if not more) by teaching and listening, as I have by studying. In fact, most all I've learned in life came from SOMEone or SOMEthing outside myself.

I think you have the potential to be a truly accomplished, master poet … just my considerably educated opinion, after reading over twenty of your pieces … thanks, guy! ⁓ Richard ; )

[Susan 🦋]

Ok take a breath (me)...hehe ( there is something ironic about reviewing a poem ABOUT reviewing...just saying Richard) yes, I do see the value in a good, concrete, well constructed review. It offers valuable lessons that can be applied in future writings. In the safety of experienced poets... truly appreciated. The challenge in my opinion, is with the beginner writer. People are people...and poets and artist,tend to be just a bit more sensitive. Poetry can be so personal..so raw and a expression of one's feelings. That is hard to review... and I feel it's important to always keep that in mind. Yet, you offer valid points. If people become to sensitive to honest correction..it can taper the learning process. As with most endeavors attempted... the process of learning always comes with challenges. A good reviewer is essential in promoting and encouraging good writing skills. So thank you Richard, for this wonderful reminder. :-)

[Richard🖌]

Susan,
I cannot thank you enough for validating the beneficial points expressed in this poem … for, to know we run parallel to one another is a truly pleasant and encouraging surprise, as this (in itself) tells me so very much about the level of progress you are on, and to what degree of understanding you've risen on your way to the top of your potential.
Like teaching — by reading and reviewing others, we learn so very much of value about the art of poetry and our own selves, we could not have in any other way.

Your review has helped me know and feel a bit more about you, and has connected us in a very profound way … thank you, Susan, for the wonderful review … hugs! ~ Richard : )

[Susan 🦋]

:-)))))))))

[alifeacoustic]

It is such a double edged sword Richard. Even if you praise a piece, you may read into it something that the author didn't mean and are met by a barrage of perplexity and confusion from the writer when you intend no harm.
As you also quite rightly say, some people are just unreviewable (if it's not a word it should be). You can try and try, but find nothing you can find worthy of mention, but it also works the other way too, with the high faluters. Some seem to have disdain for anything other than a twelve page analysis for their work and seem to think you should devote your life's study to their work.
I think what people should learn is that critiques actually mean the person really read it and stopped long enough to pay attention to the detail.
It is very definitely an art in itself. One I am still learning.

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Dear Felkow-Poet!
I could not agree with you more … you've hit the nail square on the head, My Friend, saying it all in such an understanding and inclusive way, I wish I'd said it first.
Bless all your gifted days! ⁓ Richard

[emmajoy]

Your poem is both alarmingly and charmingly academic! You've laid your opinions, intentions and emotions very succinctly. its wisdom is second to none for any who need to learn how to accept the positive and negative of constructive critiques. Not everyone does. 'Never understood why people join the Cafe then, complain about its guidelines. Tis like moving to the North pole then grumbling about the ice! Same applies to extended praise wherein lies a different problem. Is it merely posted as help/kindness or as a means to becoming top reviewer. Oh yes, that's happened now and again in the eight years I've been a member. Fun and games indeed!

Between the flit in and out without a word, and, tantrum when assisted - let's say, the cafe mood is sometimes ruffled to bedlam! As to the over indulgent comments.. guess we have to 'discuss' them as pleasantly as possible! Personally I prefer to make and receive negative, well meant comments via message box. We're not here to humiliate or upset anyone in public.

This really is a great poem not only in form and theme but by inspiring members to exchange really interesting points. Apologies, have typed far too much, Richard.

Hooray. Long live words!

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Em,
for such a wonderfully in-depth and insightful review to this often controversial poem/subject, as well-as the most appreciative praise and broad wisdom shared … yours is the highest and most interesting and complete level of review any serious composer of poetry could ever wish for, and I love it that it is mine receiving it from You! : )

It is marvelous to receive your open, honest, and highly conscious and conscientious thoughts and sentiments … I wish more writers understood and were able to express their feeling and thoughts the manner in which you do, Em — you make sharing poetry a genuine blessing, offering us all a glimpse into what proper attitude about reviewing and the various responses in mind, feeling, and mood we all should be aware of and consider reviewing and when responding to reviews.

Your idea of reviewing and critiquing privately (I think) is certainly a viable and well thought-out alternative to be considered when a reviewee is known to be sensitive; yet, one of the greatest benefits of critique in an open venue is that everyone has an opportunity to learn from the suggestions, corrections, and positive hints offered, and they learn what a meaningful review actually is and how it should and can be openly delivered without offense to anyone.

Gosh, Em, following such a brilliant review, and certainly the most meaningful for this piece, I cannot imagine an apology will properly be forthcoming, but praise most definitely is:KUDOS and a huge THANKS to you for such an open and honest critique and commentary for this all-important topic for us all!

From a poetess of your caliber and skills, your review is gratification I could never have dreamed of … thank you again, Em, ever-so sincerely … for us all! ⁓ Richard

[emmajoy]

If i were twenty five years younge , would fidget in my chair, blush and say, 'Aw, shucks!' However, am not so will say thank YOU for inviting my and other reviewers' opinions. At whatever age, we can all learn something!

[Richard🖌]

How very, very right you are, Em, and I ever-so gratefully say you are welcome, as I most humbly thank You, dear poetess, and fidget in my chair! ; )

[Tinotenda Nyevedzanai]

Excellent this is so funny and so true! Feels a little ironic to leave a review here but I'm pleased someone on here made a poem about reviews and criticism.

" Shhh! Listen well, you might just understand:
I may say nothing if there’s too much wrong,
or if a poet feels they’re highly grand;
and, never when a writer is not strong."

It's not the verse I dislike I just feel it interrupts the flow a little which is a shame because there's a great rhythm here. Just a thought all in all a great write!

[Richard🖌]

I agree, Ally!
It is a funny sort of way to approach such a real and sensitive issue most, if not all, of us endure at the hands of reviewers, but this is what we are asking (whether we know it, or not) when we post our poems on such an open venue as an international poetry site, and we soon discover there are those who will make suggestions, helps us correct typos, offer alternate ways (often better) we could have expressed this or that, and point out corrections in form, punctuation, etc; the list is almost endless.

Ally, if you are pleased about anything I have done, I am pleased, too. : )

In that verse you have an issue with, how would you have composed it that you believe will help me correct/improve the flow, M'Lady?

Looking forward to your response and help, My Sweet Friend … thank you so very much for your excellent review, too! ⁓ Richard

[marcus]

Some people do seem to become so overly sensitive to any critique. In a way I can understand this, we tend to be rather attached to our work as it will often come from a very personal place. Other people are just arrogant and proud. But ultimately those who are not open to criticism will not be able to improve themselves. And has ANYONE reached such perfection that they cannot improve, I think not!

[Richard🖌]

Truly, Marcus,
I fully understand your words, as I can so completely relate.
Even as much as I enjoy the critique and open honesty of constructive commentary, I feel a twinge of sensitivity, because I know of no one who puts more into their poetry than I do in an effort to make it perfect … all the while knowing there is no such thing, and that there is always room for improvement in some way … so I bit the bullet, shed my sensitivity, take an open and humble look at what's been offered, and try my utmost best to see if there is any way I can utilize it in improving my work.
How else to learn than to heed and put into action the feedback from one's peers?
Even if I think they're wrong, it offers me the opportunity to explain and teach. : )

Thank you, Dear Marcus, for gracing this poem and its very real and sensitive topic with your excellent input, to help us all! ⁓ Richard

[jacob erin-cilberto]

ah yes, you have said it all...if we don't want legitimate critic then we should not post---

honest opinions, feelings, thoughts on our work is what we strive for...the reactions help to make us better at what we do.

and yes, also, on not leaving comments when the poetry is so bad---and that is not being harsh or judgmental...but sometimes it is when someone just spews words with no real intention...and is totally careless with the spellings or grammar of it all...and warns us not to bother with those trivials....
yet, words are our mainstay...they keep us alive, and if we don't respect them and each other for the value of our craft, who are we?

well said, Richard.

j.

[Richard🖌]

Jacob,
Your reviews are the epitome of that which this poem is all about.
Everything you've said, every way you've expressed it, the essence of your inferences and meanings, the wisdom, experience, and knowing in your voice … I wish it were mine. : )

Thank you for being You, My Friend, and for a sterling review! ⁓ Richard

[jacob erin-cilberto]

very very kind of you to say, Richard.

j.

[Richard🖌]

Meant, every word, Jacob!

[Taylor]

Such a nice treatise to remind us all how to give and receive reviews. I love the artwork as well. Seems to me that you've used a feather touch instead of a hammer to convey an important message. Thanks for the reminders which left me with a smile.

[Richard🖌]

Thank you, Taylor!

Your response is exactly what I had hoped for when I composed and posted this piece, My Fine Friend,, and it is an earnest effort I always put forth in making my work appeal to the eye, as well-as to the mind, heart, and soul, and thank you for loving the presentation of this work.

It is my wish that all who read this poetic message will see it as you do.
You, also, have left me with a smile, Taylor … a most grateful and encouraging one! ⁓ Richard : )


(PS … I wish I was qualified to review and critique stories.)

[Taylor]

Don't Worry. I don't feel qualified to review poetry and seldom do for that reason. When I do branch out to poetry, I caution the author that I'm really just giving one reader's reaction, for what that's worth.

[Robert]

Richard,

I thought this poem was an appropriate read after your assistance you so freely gave to me. I agree I am on this site to learn. I take the good with the bad as long as its honest. Whatever the review I think its appropriate to be encouraging, as that is how I review. I encountered one person here to be arrogant, condescending , and sometimes just plain mean hearted. But I do think the majority here are very helpful and honest in the reviews (I hope). Thanks again my fellow Texan.

[Richard🖌]

Robert,

You are the gem of a Texas gentleman, and a splendid poet we all can learn so much from … it is an honor to receive your review and insights on this poem of an often, highly-sensitive matter.
I agree, My Friend, reviews should not only be complimentary and instructive, but encouraging, as-well.

From my many years of reviewing others' work, I have learned there will always be the exceptional few who will take offense at anything they look for to be derogatory and less than complimentary to their work, and there will always be those who leave overly mean and insensitive reviews, whom I ignore like the plague, because they offer nothing worthwhile, except how never to be, eh?

Smiles and blessings to you for a great weekend, Robert, and thanks for your fine review and sharing your brand of wisdom and understanding! ⁓ Richard

[Mary]

even the 'all about the critique' can be set to the rhythm of poetry! Ha ha! love this

[Richard🖌]

Mary ⁓ my mother's name.
Yes, Dear Lady-Poet, literally about anything and everything can be set to verse, as I know you well-know, eh?
Thank you warmly and most humbly for loving anything of or from me … smiles 'n hugs! ⁓ Richard