Reviews from

Ukraine War

Driven by greed.

39 total reviews 
Comment from davisr (Rhonda)
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

A beautifully penned poem about the unfortunate invasion of a sovereign country. It's sad what he's trying to do, but a heartwarming refusal of the Ukrainian people to knuckle under. I think they've surprised us all. And as you mentioned before, the Russian soldiers aren't so Jean on it either.

Best of luck in the contest,
Rhonda

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Rhonda, for this very kind review, thoughts and wishes! They're an amazingly strong people and I think it's because they've always had the enemy on their doorstep and have developed such a positive sense of identity, pride and resilience. I look at other nations and wonder if they would have reacted with such determination. But you never know.. (and don't want to). Take care Debbie
reply by davisr (Rhonda) on 08-Oct-2023
    They?ve definitely hung together and have, at least, let Putin know they?ve been in a fight.
Comment from Jesse James Doty
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

You make a great case for your point that war is driven by greed. War is Hell any way you slice it! As far as I am concerned there is no good reason for war. The statements you give help to prove your point and I agree that is one of many reasons people go to war with each other. Thanks for sharing your views on greed and how greedy Putin will keep on going until he has it all!
Jesse

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Jesse, for your kind review and thoughts which are all greatly appreciated! I know it's a bleak verse but it seemed to write itself... Take care Debbie
reply by Jesse James Doty on 08-Oct-2023
    Bleak it might be, yet, it is topical and on people's minds these days.
    Take care of yourself!
    Jesse
Comment from Mrs. KT
Excellent
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Good morning, Debbie,
My heart is with the people of Ukraine; I had the honor and privilege of teaching Ukrainian refugees English and reading and writing for many years in northern Michigan. In fact, my latest tanka, "vestiges of home," was written in their honor.
Your poetic offering is well-crafted, timely, and informative.

Thank you for sharing!
diane

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Diane! Your kind review and interesting thoughts are greatly appreciated. I must read your latest verse. I don't recall receiving it... Take care Debbie
Comment from Karen Cherry Threadgill
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Exquisitely done. No missteps no hiccups. Tight picture. A very light background which in my mind emphasized the sorrow. The light type also showed grief and suffering. And the rounded type displayed earnestness when a sharp Roman type or others would have shown aggression. Your brain knew you were doing this even if you didn't. Kudos all around.
This is just a wonderful piece of work. Karen

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Karen, for this exceptional review! It's a bit bleak but it actually did write itself. I had no idea how the conclusion was going to fall and certainly not those astute details you mention. All greatly appreciated. Debbie
reply by Karen Cherry Threadgill on 08-Oct-2023
    U R so welcome Karen
Comment from Wayne Fowler
Excellent
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Honestly written.
This is a great tribute to the heroism of the Ukrainian people, as well as the resolve of the western alliance to stop Putin. Unfortunately, it's true that Ukraine has ties to Russia. Witness the voted out President's flea to Russia after defeat.
Best wishes.

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Wayne for your kind review and interesting thoughts! Greatly appreciated. Debbie
Comment from royowen
Excellent
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With respect I doubt war is fought on grounds of greed, I think it's power pure and simple, along with a little I'm sure that Putin has some regrets that it's taken so long, and somehow seasoned with narcissism, I believe the Russian military's heart isn't in it. Beautifully written Kyrielle well done, blessings Roy

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 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Roy, for your kind review and thoughts! I knew that there might be some controversy over the root of his motivation (hence my notes) but I still believe that power, status, legacy and all this brings is rooted in a basic, insatiable greed/covetousness for his neighbour's goods, whatever the consequences. Take care Debbie
reply by royowen on 08-Oct-2023
    It?s a good rhyming word though Debbie,
reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    It happens to be, Roy, but it's certainly not the reason behind my verse.
reply by royowen on 08-Oct-2023
    If greed meant all those things, one would only need one word for all the maladies, they are subtly different, a poet should know that.
reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    I'm not saying they mean all those things, Roy. I'm saying that greed underpins them. I'm not sure why you're being so contentious here, it's my poetic opinion (which I have a right to have and have explained it fully in my notes) and, from my reviews which you're welcome to read, everyone else appears to agree.
Comment from Paul McFarland
Excellent
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Ukraine

Send out a prayer for people of Ukraine.
They feel the heavy hand of Russia's might.
Their hearts are filled with fear, but they remain.
For freedom from oppression they will fight.

The Russian horde is marching in the street.
The citizens await behind locked doors.
Outnumbered, they will not accept defeat,
While NATO's looking on from distant shores.

What will become of this beleaguered nation
While in this game of chess, it is a pawn?
Will tyranny enjoy its consummation,
Or freedom still be there when comes the dawn?

Will peace, this winter, best the cunning foe,
Or will there still be crimson in the snow?


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 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Paul, for your kind rating and lovely verse which I hope you will post, if not already. Greatly appreciated. Debbie
Comment from Enrico Langfordino
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Once again that repetitivity rears it's attractive head as in this wonderful claim on war. The message is clear, war is futile and to be avoided. I think that repetitivity helps the reader to enjoy more easily Debbie. By the second stanza he is expecting that repetition. Your poem certainly reflects and highlights the terrible war waged in that part of the world. Brilliant write.

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much, Enrico, for your very kind review and thoughts which, as ever, I greatly appreciate from you. Take care Debbie
Comment from JSD
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Love it. Love the refrain. Love the thumping, thudding rhythm that leads the reader on the path to your conclusion. And this also makes so much sense. Well done on the notes and the research; an excellent achievement. x

 Comment Written 08-Oct-2023


reply by the author on 08-Oct-2023
    Thank you so much for this, John! Your words are deeply valued. Take care, Debbie