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NOT SO LONG AGO

Submitted by William Lynn on Sun, 2023-04-02 14:56

I don't know if you remember
A time not so long ago,
When we could choose to disagree
And no anger had to flow.

We could often find some neutral ground
And agree to give and take,
To listen to opposing views
And decisions there to make.

We didn't have to change our stance
As we listened to the news,
We just had to try to understand
Other's thoughts and points of view.

Now we look at friends of past
And wonder if they know,
The seeds of hate and anger
Their hurtful rhetoric can sew.

We don't always have to prove
That our stance is the right way,
We only have to take the chance
And let others have their say.

If in the end we disagree
After having had our say,
We can still be friends and promise
Not to let opinions rule the day.

Let's take a thoughtful moment
To examine our words and views,
Because if we cannot compromise
It's more than friendship we will lose.

Review Request (Intensity): 
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Review Request (Direction): 
What did you think of my title?
How was my language use?
What did you think of the rhythm or pattern or pacing?
How does this theme appeal to you?
How was the beginning/ending of the poem?
Is the internal logic consistent?
Last few words: 
Let's take a moment to turn down the noise and listen to others. We might just learn a thing or two.
Editing stage: 
Not actively editing
Contest: 
Neopoem Of The Week April 2nd to April 8th 2023
Content level: 
Not Explicit Content
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Comments

neopoet

Sun, 2023-04-02 14:56

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

The poem "Not So Long Ago" by an unknown author speaks to the current state of discourse in society and how it has changed over time. The poem begins by reflecting on a time when people could disagree without anger and hostility. The speaker reminisces about how people used to find common ground and listen to opposing views to make decisions. The poem suggests that people used to value understanding and compromise over being right or winning an argument.

The poem's tone is nostalgic and wistful, implying that the speaker longs for a return to a more civil and respectful society. The poem's message is clear: we need to be more understanding and tolerant of others' opinions, even if we don't agree with them. The poem suggests that if we can't compromise and respect each other's views, we risk losing friendships and creating more division and hostility in society.

One suggested line edit for the poem is to change "loose" to "lose" in the last stanza. This would correct the spelling error and improve the poem's overall readability and professionalism.

Overall, "Not So Long Ago" is a thoughtful and timely poem that highlights the importance of respectful communication and understanding in society. The poem's message is especially relevant in today's polarized political climate, where people often talk past each other rather than listening and finding common ground. The poem's nostalgic tone and hopeful message offer a ray of optimism in an otherwise dark and divisive time.

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

Richard Milne

Tue, 2023-04-11 14:36

Agree with the critique and suggested edit(s). Would also suggest changing "sew" to "sow", which seems more appropriate for the intent, but either works... Keep writing!

Lavender

Sun, 2023-04-02 21:21

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Hello, William,
A well written poem with an important, wonderful message! The final stanza is especially significant. Something we could all reflect on - daily. I also like the AI critique and think it's spot on.
Much enjoyed! Thank you!
L

William Lynn

Sun, 2023-04-02 23:41

William Lynn's picture

Thanks for you comments and critique. - Bill

author comment

William Lynn

Mon, 2023-04-03 11:15

William Lynn's picture

Thanks you Ekaterina for you critique and for taking the time to read. Be well. be safe, be kind. - Bill

author comment

Rosewood Apothecary

Tue, 2023-04-04 18:49

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Find your humanity. I simply don’t watch news. It’s a terrible thing and I’m not super proud of my ignorance but it was just killing my will to live and now I’m happily unaffiliated with any agenda but my own happiness. Sounds selfish but I can’t love and care for my family if I’m not loving myself.

Great job, and you’re right we can totally disagree and coexist,
Tim

William Lynn

Fri, 2023-04-14 11:58

William Lynn's picture

Thanks Tim for your response, I appreciate it! - Bill

author comment

Leslie

Sun, 2023-04-09 19:06

Leslie's picture

this is something that needs to be placed in every government office, room etc.
Beginning with the President and from there on down. I completely agree.
sincerely, John Boydstun. Your spot on and rock solid! Beautiful work!

The power of our language can and will change the world.
Successively until our languages become one!

William Lynn

Fri, 2023-04-14 12:04

William Lynn's picture

Thanks John, I appreciate your comments and response.

Unfortunately, I have lost friends because it's "Their way or the Highway". I just don't understand why people, regardless of their positions can't at least listen and try to understand. Nobody is more opinionated than I am, but I will always listen to other's points of view, then I'll research, and then I'll see where I go. People are always welcome to their opinions, but not to their own facts. Truth and factual information are the keys, not just listening to those that tell you what to think. Thanks again Bill

author comment

Leslie

Fri, 2023-04-14 14:01

Leslie's picture

I couldn't agree more! Thank you for responding.

The power of our language can and will change the world.
Successively until our languages become one!

Leslie

Fri, 2023-04-14 14:01

Leslie's picture

I couldn't agree more! Thank you for responding.

The power of our language can and will change the world.
Successively until our languages become one!

Rula

Sun, 2023-04-16 15:25

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and crafted.
Welcome to Neopoet.

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