Reviews from

CSP: A Collection of Poems

Viewing comments for Chapter 110 "Those Lost Years"
A collection of poetry

30 total reviews 
Comment from jaeladarling
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Thank you for sharing this dramatic poem with us. My dad was in Vietnam, starting in 1968, so I have heard it from a soldier's point of view. It is interesting to see this from an "Average Joe" point of view. Nicely done.

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    To this day, I still see and understand both sides' (generations) points of view. Because it was ALL so new. And my father's generation only knew of patriotism like during World War II and to have this sudden shift was foreign for so many. And then the youth were trying to make sense of it all. Crazy for everyone. And let's not forget the soldiers. They were the ones with the most ambiguous feelings of all. Your dad would have seen a lot being there starting in '68, that's for sure. Thanks very much for your review. Much appreciated, Sue
Comment from Jewell McChesney
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I recall well these days and felt the same way. I am 51. Kent State, yeh...oh wow, I almost forgot.

I met a serial killer not long after that and almost became his victim.

This is awesome work. Thanks for sharing.

Jj

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009

Comment from SunlitWhisper
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Sure make one ask all these but most of all to cry. I like the gray the black and the picture they are all fitting the poem that you've penned. Love the reflection of the past that you've brought back to light and one can't help but hang their head in shame of how our past went, how the present is going but we must look up! With Hope!

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    Sunlit, I almost didn't even post this one. Didn't know if it was something anyone would be interested in. I've been amazed at all the reviews with a multitude of feelings. And to get this review of highest esteem from you....well, I got a bit choked up. For you to feel that strongly about what I wrote humbles me. Yes, we all must have hope....there is nothing without it. Again, thank you very much. With warmest regards, Sue
Comment from sherrygreywolf
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Good work - it's definitely got the feel of those turbulent times. I am about your age and was confused, too. I couldn't understand why my Dad was so unhappy with those protesting a war that was getting my friends' fathers and older brothers killed or maimed. There was a protest in Austin that passed in front of my junior high school. I skipped class so that I could join it and got in BIG trouble when he found out.

Again - great work - sherry

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    Yeah, I hear you. That's why I wrote that Dad said, "Long-haired hippies". I do understand why he felt that way. It was all new to him, also. To all of us. Thank you for sharing your story. And for your very kind review and comments. Sue
Comment from KYPollard/El Gato
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

You did a wonderful job in writing this. Your message is presented well. I found no errors while reading. I wish you much luck in the contest.

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    El Gato, thank you for reading and reviewing this work and for your compliments. Sue
Comment from rmdelta
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Sue,

Very strong message you write in this well written poem, my friend. Terrific stanzas each with a powerful message. I could tell you my feelings about that time, but would rather not talk about it. I was in the army, nuff said.

You get my vote, Sue.

Reggie

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    When I was in my mid to late 20's, I remember times when I would meet a vet and perhaps ask them about something. It didn't take long at all for me to learn not to even touch on the subject. Like you said, "would rather not talk about it". Always broke my heart. And still does. Sue
Comment from adewpearl
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

I'm 57 - what a difference 4 years makes at that age because I was a college freshman on strike at the time of Kent State, but still wondering so many of the things you say - why would soldiers be shunned? Why would things come to such a tragic end as the deaths at Kent State? Strong free verse - evokes all sorts of feelings

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    Yes, Brooke. And it's those 4 to 5 years difference of age that made feel so "in between". I knew so many people that were 19, 20...and everyone was divided on so many issues and subjects. But, I remember being baffled by it all and basically being mute...while I tried to take it all in; even something as simple as new phrases like "sit-ins". Thanks so much for your review and comments. Sue
reply by adewpearl on 07-Jan-2009
    I've often envied people 5 years older than I who had a chance to be in on the civil rights movement more and who were the age of student leaders during the strike in 1970 instead of lowly freshmen! Of course, now I don't want to be 5 years older
Comment from kristikim
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Divisions wide, still don't know
"Why four are dead in Ohio
Why soldiers are shunned on coming home
Why women toss children in our Embassy
Why helicopters are tossed in the sea

Still asking how/what/why - I'm fifty-three"

In 1970, I was 10, and even though I found out years later, that my estranged father went to Vietnam as an airplane mechanic, I was oblivious to it all at the time. I did become somewhat of a hippy, though, a few years later, so perhaps it all had an unconscious effect on me... I don't know.
This is a wonderful, painful expression which comes from the mind in memories, of your child within.
Good luck in the contest, with this emotionally moving piece of writing.]
kristikim


 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    Wow, thanks for your moving review. Thanks for sharing your story. And for all your compliments here. With regards, Sue
Comment from dportwood
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Expressive and true. We stand bewildered by the changes that take place in our world, none of which we can control or understand. Your poem is a well-written contest entry that makes use of the poetic tool requirements outlined in the contest rules. Good job.
Duane

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    How true, how true. "None of which we can control or understand".....you said it, Duane. Thank you for your review. With regards, Sue
Comment from jshep
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Powerful memories projected in this piece, and the confusion of a young girl is definitely felt, wondering where she belonged amidst such chaos. Strong feelings felt in this poem. Good execution of requirements. Excellent job and good luck. Joyce

 Comment Written 07-Jan-2009


reply by the author on 07-Jan-2009
    Thank you very much for reading and reviewing my work. When I wrote this, I wasn't sure if anyone would understand me. It's been amazing how many relate. Thank you for your very kind compliments. Sue