Half past midnight on this black night.
All is quiet, perhaps too quiet, as a little
noise might be a welcome diversion.
Your pillow resting just below the sill,
still unoccupied as it has been for
three long weeks, nearly four.
Your letter, just two short lines,
said you needed space but you
would phone. The wait continues.
I don't know where you are and
I'm not sure you know either.
Patience is a virtue; but not mine.
Just one short call and only
one question you need to ask;
"How are the kids?" Damn you.
Comments
Neopoet AI (premium) - 5-29-23 version
The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet's computer artificial intelligence:
The poem, "Half Past Midnight," effectively uses imagery and emotion to convey a sense of longing and frustration. The use of time and silence in the first stanza sets a somber mood, which is further intensified by the mention of the unoccupied pillow and the waiting for a phone call.
However, the transition from the third to the fourth stanza could be smoother. The sudden introduction of the speaker's impatience seems abrupt and might benefit from a more gradual build-up.
The final line, "How are the kids? Damn you," is impactful, but it might be more effective if the anger is hinted at earlier in the poem. This would provide a more balanced emotional arc and make the ending less surprising.
The poem could also benefit from a more consistent use of rhythm and meter. While free verse can be effective, the inconsistent rhythm here can sometimes detract from the overall flow of the poem.
Lastly, the poem might benefit from more show, less tell. Instead of directly stating "Patience is a virtue; but not mine," the speaker's impatience could be shown through actions or imagery. This would allow the reader to infer the speaker's character and emotions, making the poem more engaging.
Please send feedback about Neo (our computer generated critique system) to https://www.neopoet.com/contact
Dear Will,
I am very sorry for your friend. I hope his story resolved itself in a non violent outcome? How is He or she? they have a good friend in you! I found my second husband in bed with my best friend. They married eventually. I let him pay for the divorce. good poem!
*hugs, Cat
Hi Cat.
Hi Cat.
The situation unfortunately did not work out the way he had hoped. The good news is he got sole custody of the kids and they are doing great. The mother, a certified snake, has never called or seen the kids, although she would be welcome to do so.
Thanks for reading and I hope hubby #2 is still paying, but that's just me. I am not a very forgiving person. Maybe I'll be better in the next life.
Be well. - Will
Dear Will,
I heard that #2 became junkie...I could not have handled that well...I met Steven after I got my associates degree. So things worked well for Steven and I :)
*hugs, Cat
This brings to mind...
a song that was popular in Country Western music in the late 70's. "You Picked A Fine Time To Leave Me Lucille".
A well told story, for sure! Nice job. ~ Geez.
.
Howdy Geez. Tanks for the
Howdy Geez. Tanks for the read and for commenting. Thanks also for the reminder of Kenny Rogers and the song. Indeed, there may never be a good time but some times are much worse than others.
Thank again, Will