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Hi everybody! I am new to the site here and really excited (and nervous) to get involved. I have already submitted 2 poems that I wrote. I put rewards points on them, and keep looking for them to show up, but have not seen them yet. It does say I had one "view", however, so I guess they are out there somewhere. I have also been busy trying to add my own thoughts and comments on your poetry, even though I am hardly a "professional" critic.
A bit about myself: I am 29 years old and I teach 4th grade in Wilmington, Delaware. I have spent nearly my entire life in Boston, however, and still consider it my true home. I have published one novel for middle readers (The Sea Shack) and enjoyed the many positive responses I've received from readers. In the past few years, I began to explore poetry, working to expand my writing. I felt like a reader who did not always "get" poetry. Some pieces I loved, and others said they were "okay". Then a piece would be honored, revered, and celebrated... while I wondered what it was even talking about. Soon, I began to feel poetry's strength rests in the eye and heart of the beholder, and there was no reason for me to avoid it. I began writing poems, but rarely saved them, doubtng my ability. Finally, just recently, I decided to take a risk. I decided to not only save some of my poems, but also work to share them. Perhaps they are not very good, but perhaps they are great! How would I ever know without taking a chance? I have also worked with my father to start a new literary magazine called "Hoi Polloi"... the venture is called Dog Days Press. Since I will now be helping in the assembly of this first issue which will include poetry, I decided it would be wise to dive deeper into this world of writing.
So...there is the story of how I arrived here. I am happy to join, eager to get involved, and hopeful I can add value to the group. I have been very proud and confident with my work on novels, but poetry brings out new fear and nerves. So, when you see my poems out there, please be honest and fair, but don't be too rough on the rookie. =)
By the way, the poems I have read so far have been so impressive and very strong. I posted my poems before I fully understood the strength of the poets in this group, so the bar seems to be set high for me. That is a good thing, however, and I have my goals. Hopefully my work can be strong enough to fit in with the group.
I hope everyone is enjoying a great Thanksgiving break and I look forward to learning more about you and your =) writing. -
Midnight greetings
Welcome, Butch, I have a hunch you will fit right in, both as poet and critic. Several--at least four--teachers hang out here too. Enjoy!
Terry -
Hello, Butch, I know it's pretty late to be welcoming you but I would like to do it anyway! I am no teacher and no professional critic or writer either, but I hope we can help each other. Your comments so far have been very aptly made and noted!
Nienna -
Heya Butch, and welcome to the site! You chose a great place to start sharing poetry, I hope you'll love it here.
PS, I'm new too
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Adding your reply:
Mark McNulty
Nov 22 8:43 PM 2006
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