The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet's computer artificial intelligence:

In the poem "Butterfly Missives," the use of metaphor and simile is quite effective. The comparison of the students' sign language to butterflies and their movements to quaking trees helps to create a vivid and engaging image for the reader. However, there are a few areas where the poem could be improved.

Firstly, the transition between the first and second stanza could be smoother. The sudden shift from the airplane setting to the metaphorical description of the students' sign language is a bit jarring. It might be helpful to include some transitional language or imagery to guide the reader into the metaphor.

Secondly, the poem could benefit from a more consistent rhythm or meter. The lines vary significantly in length, which can disrupt the flow of the poem. Experimenting with syllable count or stress patterns could help to create a more rhythmic reading experience.

Lastly, the phrase "off-key chortle" in the first stanza seems out of place. It's unclear what this is referring to and how it relates to the rest of the poem. If this is meant to describe a sound made by the students, it might be more effective to use language that aligns with the rest of the poem's imagery and tone. For example, a phrase that likens the sound to something in nature, similar to the butterfly and tree metaphors used later in the poem, could work well.

Overall, the poem has a strong foundation and presents a unique and engaging perspective. With a few adjustments, it could be even more effective.

Please send feedback about Neo (our computer generated critique system) to https://www.neopoet.com/contact

I think that the AI has it all wrong. I like it just the way it is. As to the lines having a consistent meter or rhythm, I don't get it.
The "off key chortle" describes a sound that is typical of a someone who is deaf, not having the benefit of hearing the way that they sound and not caring. I like this a lot. ~ Geezer.
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I am with Geezer on this, I really like it just the way it is...beautifully creative and painting a picture! My husband is deaf, he took me to a sign language class (for both of us) now I can sign the basics! (most of the alphabet. I get "e" and "q" confused) By the way, welcome to Neopoet, we are all glad to read your poem and hope there will be many more to enjoy!

*hugs, Cat

p.s.

I really enjoy your sense of humor! ands and buts are notoriously dangers words sometimes necessary but usually used as filler, lol!

I love the story you used in this poem. I think the AI doesn't know much about humans so it can't deal with subtleties or nuances. It was a joy to read. Thank you Ruby :) xx