The Poetry Skeptic
For the poetry skeptic…
I hear the click of your tongue
a poem, you say…
another one?
Why do you waste your days?
No one will read them
no one…
you say.
Perhaps…
Still I write them, anyway.
There is such magic
to be found
when words sway…
dancing into their proper space
language
a constellation, connecting…
with grace.
Whatever…
you say.
‘Roses are red
Violets are blue’…
blah
blah
blah
whoop-de-do.
Now therein lies the difference
between…
you and me.
‘Lol and Wtf’
I wonder, can you see…
how our language is running
amok?
We’re all in such a hurry…
twiddling thumbs across our screens
reducing beauty
to acronyms of life’s scurry.
So yes, I am inclined to write
‘another one’…
while I am quite certain-
my poetry has only just begun.
- Writers on the Web by Melissa Hougard - August 11, 2017
- Black Phoebe – The Beauty of a Fleeting Moment - June 6, 2017
- The Quiet of an Ordinary Saturday - May 20, 2017


Whimsical and wonderful piece – you’ve so joyfully expressed what we all feel from time to time. The life of a poet is a labor of love.
Thank you RJ, I’m so glad that you related. I appreciate your comment. 🙂
Best,
Mel
What a fun verse to read, Mel. I agree with Ralph – “The life of a poet is a labor of love.” Well done.
Thank you Phyllis, glad that you enjoyed it. It’s good to be fun, once in a while. Ha! Thanks again.
Best,
Mel
And don’t you ever stop writing another one Mel, your words and expression stirs hearts and indeed you are more than worthy, my poet. Its a shame so many undervalue this art form, because to me it is the epitome of expression in language: succinct, meaningful, often multi-layered and above all filled with the beauty of minds. You are a wonderful poet Mel, never ever doubt yourself. I’ve missed you. Nice to read you poetic mind again. Take care.
Thank you Tony, poetry becomes more and more awe inspiring to me at each attempt, and I am grateful to explore it. I just wish the people around me had a better understanding. I don’t think I could stop now…there is always more.
I appreciate your support, it means a great deal.
Best,
Mel
Mel, poetry is the ultimate word art form. Society today in general may not appreciate it’s value but it is everywhere around without many realising it. Without poetry there would be no songs, advertising jingles, lullabies, nursery rhymes etc. It is what I prefer to read and write over all other forms of writing. Well epressed.
Thank you website manager, you are absolutely right, and I am so glad that you pointed that out. It is everywhere, and in countless forms. So glad that you appreciated the piece. 🙂
Best,
Mel
I quote the following:
“There are as many definitions of poetry as there are poets. Wordsworth defined poetry as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings;” Emily Dickinson said, “If I read a book and it makes my body so cold no fire ever can warm me, I know that is poetry;” and Dylan Thomas defined poetry this way: “Poetry is what makes me laugh or cry or yawn, what makes my toenails twinkle, what makes me want to do this or that or nothing.”
I agree with Website Manager above me, poetry is everywhere around us. Many are inspired to attempt to write a poem with meaning and conviction, but only a few are true artists, releasing their inner souls, so those who read their words are moved like no other. Well expressed Mel, you are one of those who move a soul.
Oh I love these quotes you have shared, especially from Emily Dickinson , thank you.
Your comment is more than gracious, and I am grateful for your kindness Vincent. Exploring poetry is a wonderful journey, and I only hope to keep on it.
Thanks again.
Best,
Mel
Not sure how i missed this one, Mel. But glad I found it. Nice job and expresses the hearts of so many. Thanks for another job well done!
Thank you William, no worries, so happy that you stopped by and enjoyed it. 🙂
Best,
Mel
You write ALL that you can and all that you want to , It is our personal savior you know ! Very nice visuals too!…..Ed
Thank you Ed, appreciate the support very much, I don’t think I could stop if I tried. You are very kind. 🙂
Best,
Mel
I love your attitude in rhyme. Don’t ever stop writing poetry. I must admit there are skeptics, but there are many poetry lovers and I’m one of them. Bravo!!!!!
You are so right, and I am so glad that you do! Thank you Ruby. 🙂
Best,
Mel
I am not a poet of many years and had much the same experience as you. Once it gets in our blood it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks and it is just so great to have places like this to get them out there. Nothing quite like seeing a new poem we have written is there?
Good luck and many happy hours dreaming them up!
Yes, Jackie and It is so nice to have someone that can relate. I am grateful to have a place to share it. Appreciate your comment very much. 🙂
Best,
Mel
These are the conversations that make me so secretive about my poetic life. Thank goodness I have the ability to find poets who love to write poems for whatever reason that moves them. It helps me feel less misunderstood. Jamie
I know Jamie…I feel like I must be some alien to enjoy such a past time. Oh well, when it’s in the heart what can you do? Thank you for your comment.
Best,
Mel