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

The poem "Desert Wonders" effectively uses vivid imagery and personification to create a sense of place. The use of descriptive language, such as "vivid hues of red and shadowed purple" and "cactus soldiers take their stand," paints a clear picture of the desert landscape. The poem also effectively uses metaphor and simile, comparing the desert to a canvas and the tumbleweeds to soldiers.

However, the poem could benefit from a more consistent meter. The lines vary in length and rhythm, which can disrupt the flow of the poem. Consider revising the poem to have a more consistent number of syllables per line or a consistent rhythmic pattern.

Additionally, the poem could benefit from a stronger thematic focus. While the poem describes the desert landscape in detail, it is less clear what the poem is trying to say about this landscape. Is the poem simply a celebration of the desert's beauty, or is it making a larger point about the value of nature, the passage of time, or the relationship between humans and the natural world? Clarifying the poem's theme could make it more impactful.

Finally, the poem's ending could be stronger. The final stanza introduces the idea of the speaker sitting in stillness and embracing the desert's wonders, but this idea is not fully developed. Consider expanding on this idea or connecting it more clearly to the rest of the poem.

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

Hello, William,
Beautiful description of the southwest - literally and emotionally. You've stirred the senses with this poem, and yet quieted the mind. Having seen a bit of it all myself, I cannot imagine how "Some may see a lonely sand swept land..." but you are correct, some see only with limited vision, not their souls. I feel the connection and the wonderment.
Thank you!
L

I recall during a trip when dad was transferred from San Diego to Memphis back in the early sixties driving past the painted desert..I was maybe 10 but still recall the beauty if not the details. Some might say a purely descriptive poem is not worth while. I differ. To transfer beauty from one mind to another is always a good thing

we used to live in Texas and I know for a fact, the beauty of a desert! In particular the wonder of colors in a sunrise or sunsets of that painted miracle! as if by an unseen hand! So many kinds of cacti, too. this is a beautiful poem and I am glad to have witnessed it! thank you for sharing a moment in your world, with us!

*love it all, Cat

that the AI does not have the capability to imagine beyond sight and into emotion.
I get that there are flucuations in the meter, but most of them could be overcome with a really good orator.
I'm sure that if you were to read it as an orator would, with a loud, strong voice; you would see where they are,
and how to fix them. I don't always take into account a writer's accent or local pronunciations, so I may be all wrong.
I enjoyed the trip, it reminded me of a quick trip out there in my youth. I think that the last lines are very good.
Just passing through. ~ Geez.
.

Very good poem expresses the trueness of the desert.

William:

As someone who spends at least four months a year in a desert environment, I enjoyed Desert Wonders quite a bit. The critique by AI, as is often the case, was annoying and seemed completely devoid of soul and humanity, which I guess is to be expected from a computer-generated cookie-cutter approach that seeks to restrict rather than promotes artistry. Take heart, at least the computer gave you some good words -- on virtually everything I write, I get the message that the AI is unable to provide any feedback. That strikes me as a cop-out and a lack of integrity. But again, to be expected from a soul-less automaton.

Keep writing, and thank you for your many years in law enforcement protecting people and promoting peace. God bless you sir!