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Could Have Would Have Should have

I could have left before,
But entangled hearts are messy.
Instead I put my dreams on hold
And they became my nightmares.
I would have told you,
But you wouldn't have understood.
Instead I tried to save your pain
And caused my own.

I should have moved away,
But it seemed stepping into the abyss.
Instead I stayed,
Hardened; a heavy impenetrable stone.

I could have.
I would have.
I should have.

But I didn't.

Now it is too late.
Time crept stealthily,
Advancing inexorably,
Robbing me of a second chance.

Style / type: 
Free verse
Review Request (Intensity): 
I appreciate moderate constructive criticism
Last few words: 
I am a total newbie.
Editing stage: 
Content level: 
Not Explicit Content
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Comments

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

The poem "Could Have Would Have Should Have" is a poignant reflection on missed opportunities and the consequences of inaction. The speaker expresses regret for not taking action when they had the chance, resulting in their dreams turning into nightmares and causing their own pain. The use of repetition in the refrain "I could have. I would have. I should have. But I didn't" emphasizes the speaker's sense of missed opportunities and highlights the weight of their regret.

One line edit that could enhance the poem is to change "Robbin" to "Robbing" in the last stanza to correct the spelling error.

Overall, the poem effectively conveys the theme of regret and missed opportunities through its concise and powerful language. The use of metaphors, such as the entangled hearts and the speaker becoming a heavy stone, adds depth to the poem and creates a vivid image for the reader. The ending is particularly impactful, with the speaker acknowledging that time has passed and they can no longer go back and change their actions.

One area for improvement could be to expand on the specific circumstances that led to the speaker's inaction. Adding more concrete details could make the poem more relatable to readers and help them connect with the speaker's experience.

In conclusion, "Could Have Would Have Should Have" is a well-crafted poem that explores the painful consequences of missed opportunities. With a few minor edits, it could be even stronger and more impactful.

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

A very powerful piece that I relate to. So many situations, I should've left, if I would've known, I could've done better but I chose to put someone else first, even though they wouldn't do the same for me. Well done!

~RoseBlack~

I didn't because I thought I might still salvage the situation. [I greatly overestimated my abilities.] I agree that you might have said something about why you didn't but, on the other hand, it's fine that you didn't, because it leaves room for speculation and boy; do people love to speculate! Nice job! Welcome to Neopoet, I hope that you thoroughly enjoy the time you spend here, and you get some benefit from rubbing elbows with some of what I think are the finest poets on any site. ! ~Geezer.
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