Reviews from

An Epigram for Troubled Times

an epigram

156 total reviews 
Comment from Sanku
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

This is a wonderful little poem. Arms instinctively stretch out wide to hug but why should we make them hold a weapon? Both verb and noun forms of arm perfectly blend to create a masterful epigram.this is simply brilliant.

 Comment Written 24-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 24-Jul-2014
    Sanku, thank you so very much for your generous response to this epigram :-) Brooke
Comment from Craigitar
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Very nice, Brooke! This flashes back to '60s protest with its feel of gentle defiance and appeal for rationality. This is a bumper sticker. Great little write well worth the stars.
Craig.

 Comment Written 23-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    Craig, thank you so very much for your generous response to this epigram :-) Brooke
Comment from mfowler
Excellent
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Terrific epigram. The message of a peaceful heart (He who hugs is not inclined to arm himself for war) is beautifully summarised in this original description of one who loves. But, it is in the counterpoint, using the play on the word 'arms' that this short verse has its most impact. The statement 'Instinct ought to have more say in what our arms are for' cleverly explores a notion about being peacemakers that refers back to the line about arming for war. Thoughtful, beautifully constructed piece of wisdom.

 Comment Written 23-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    Thank you, mfowler, for your thoughtful response to this epigram :-) Brooke
Comment from lancellot
Excellent
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Oh, this is cute. The lines fit just how he seems to feel. He has all he needs in his arm, and no use for anything else, or a non-candy snack. Great work.

 Comment Written 23-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    lancellot, thanks so much :-) Brooke
Comment from chrissy8
Excellent
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Wow, this is really beautiful indeed. " Instinct ought to have more say in what our arms are for " Very well thought out line. It could be a double entendre because you are talking about war in the first line. But I would give you six stars if I had one because you indeed hit the witty epigram right on the nose!!!

 Comment Written 23-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    krisis, thanks so much :-) Yes, this is a play on "arms" I appreciate your wish for a six :-) Brooke
Comment from Set in Stone
Excellent
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How meaningful this poem is in light of the goings-on in the world today. It's brief and to the point yet expresses a very important idea. Great use of "arm" to be taken with a double meaning. You're teaching a wonderful lesson here without the effect of being "preachy".

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    Set in Stone, thank you so much :-) Brooke
Comment from michaelcahill
Excellent
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I like this short form. You have said a lot and done so with great cleverness and meaning. I shall add this to my list of things to attempt over and over again. Hahaha. I'm stubborn, so I'll get it eventually! There are all kinds of students! Wonderful piece that says so much. It is already accepted with a big smile and then it starts to work on the mind. mikey

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 23-Jul-2014
    mikey, thanks so very much :-) Brooke
Comment from ravenblack
Excellent
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Needless to say, I realllllly like your duo-use of arms. Nobody died from a hug....unless from a bear...but maybe it is our constitutional right two own bears with crushing arms lol.sorry for the spin. This speaks to what I try to believe is our true human nature.

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2014
    ravenblack, thank you so much for your thoughtful response to this epigram :-) Brooke
Comment from dejohnsrld (Debbie)
Excellent
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A lovely epigram, Brooke. I love the puppy. When I went to the hospital for my amputation, I took my stuffed beagle since I couldn't take my real one. We all need something to comfort us. Have a great evening, my friend~Debbie

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2014
    Debbie, thanks so much :-) Miranda bought that dog for Nora several years ago, and then Nora gave it back when she became a "big girl" and was getting her room switched over to more big girl things. LOL Now Sawyer loves Nora's hand-me-down, which is so cute :-) Brooke
Comment from Pearl Edwards
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Yes, so true in these troubling times Brooke. If more hugs were given perhaps more hate would be forgotten. Another lovely poignant photo of Sawyer. Nice read.

valda

 Comment Written 22-Jul-2014


reply by the author on 22-Jul-2014
    valda, thank you so much :-) Brooke