Reviews from

One Day In Camden

A chance encounter with the past...

16 total reviews 
Comment from Mark Jackson
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This evocative poem immerses readers in a scene of emotional complexity and nostalgia, set against the backdrop of a dreary day in a greasy-spoon cafe. Through rich imagery and poignant reflections, you delve into the intricacies of past relationships, regrets, and the haunting persistence of memory.

 Comment Written 29-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 29-Apr-2024
    Thank you, Mark.
Comment from bob cullen
Excellent
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This poem demanded my attention. I lived in Camden for forty years. The picture looks familiar, your words rings bells, I needed to hear more. What decade was this set in? And lastly, do I know you? Is there now a local writer's group? I also like the 93 cents rewards your writing pays. Thank you, Bob.

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 29-Apr-2024
    Hi Bob,
    Thank you. This poem set in Camden is completely fictional. I don't live there, I live approx 25 miles from London. I have been to Camden a few times though.
reply by bob cullen on 29-Apr-2024
    Actually I'm from Camden in NSW and that photo you displayed looked like some very old buildings there. Hope to read more of your writing.
reply by bob cullen on 29-Apr-2024
    Actually I'm from Camden in NSW and that photo you displayed looked like some very old buildings there. Hope to read more of your writing.
Comment from LJbutterfly
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is a riveting story filled with raw emotion, painful memories, love, and hope. Your descriptions and realistic dialogue coupled with the private thoughts of the protagonist provides character development that leads the reader to wish for the best for the narrator. This is well written and entertaining. Best wishes in the contest.

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 28-Apr-2024
    Thank you so much.
Comment from BermyBye50
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

This is a brilliant entry in the No Restrictions Poetry Contest. I have never seen or read a poem that creatively incorporates brilliantly written dialogue within the rhyme scheme. This is an exceptional poem capturing the surprise of a chance encounter with a person of familiarity. Each stanza is beautifully written and the imagery painted within each verse and the rhymes are creative masterpieces.

All the best in the contest,

Eugene

 Comment Written 28-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 28-Apr-2024
    Wow, Eugene, thanks so much. I feel honoured :)
Comment from Julie Helms
Excellent
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This was really interesting to read and well done. The side by side inner and outer dialogue is a very effective technique to relay this story, what is being said, alongside what is being thought. You also expertly slid in some backstory that way.

I think it would be easier for the reader to follow if you used italics instead of single quotes for the thoughts. It would remove the extra step of double-checking to see which it is in order to follow along.

I really enjoyed this piece!
Julie

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 Comment Written 28-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 28-Apr-2024
    Hi Julie,
    Yes, you're quite right.
    The poem was italic'ed but the system put it to standard on posting. I meant to edit - then got distracted and forgot.
    Fixed now. Thank you so much :)
Comment from RodG
Excellent
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This poem is packed with emotional power. We witness the unexpected reunion of two former lovers. It's not easy for either to reconnect. There might be too much history behind them to have any kind of future. We feel sorry for both of them. I especially like your use of dialog in the poem. Rod

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 Comment Written 28-Apr-2024


reply by the author on 28-Apr-2024
    Thank you, Rod. It's appreciated :)