Nicola's Story

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

The poem "Nicola's Story" presents a poignant commentary on the contemporary phenomenon of social media and its impact on personal tragedies. The poem effectively uses imagery and narrative to convey the story of a woman's disappearance and the subsequent public reaction.

However, there are areas where the poem could be improved. The first stanza introduces the theme of public fascination with personal tragedy, but it could benefit from more specific imagery. Instead of "Sympathy for strangers is very curious," consider using more concrete language to illustrate this idea.

In the second stanza, the transition from "speculation" and "rumour" to "abuse" could be smoother. The phrases "Idiots and trolls feeding" and "Rubbernecks tick toking" are powerful, but they could be more effective if they were integrated more seamlessly into the narrative.

The final stanzas effectively convey the personal impact of the tragedy, but the language could be more evocative. Instead of "I heard it on the radio," consider using sensory language to bring the reader into the moment.

The phrase "Partner said : 'no words just agony'" could also be more impactful. Consider rephrasing it to show, rather than tell, the partner's grief.

Finally, the last line, "Why their mum is not coming home," is a powerful ending, but it could be even more poignant if it were more specific. Consider adding details about the daughters or the mother to make the loss more tangible.

Overall, the poem effectively uses narrative and commentary to explore the impact of social media on personal tragedies. With some revisions, it could be even more powerful.

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

This is such a compelling piece! the lines that hit me hard were these:

I heard it on the radio
Partner said : “no words just agony”
His nightmare is now beginning
Dad will have to tell his daughters
Why their mum is not coming home

This poem is perfect, nothing I would change.

*hugs, Cat

This story must have stayed with you. It is a haunting tale, to be sure!

*hugs, Cat

You've covered this really well - the nature of human beings when something like this occurs. We expose our good, and our not-so-good. The final two stanzas bring in your empathy and compassion. Perfect title.
Thank you,
L