EJ,
Well, this is quite a piece of writing. I found no mistakes and no mechanical errors so I can dive right into subjective critique!
Following is JEFF MEYER'S social/political opinion. Skip if you want; I wouldn't blame you.
First, I agree that black lives matter. However, while I understand the sentiment, the word "black" sticks in craw. The same is true for Gay Pride, Women's Rights... When we emphasize differences with words like "black" and "gay" and "women," we promulgate the validity of these divisions.
That having been said, I do understand these labels. It seems that the rights of gay men and women are more curtailed than those of heterosexuals, that our black population is being targeted more aggressively, that women still have a glass ceiling. But everybody, every group, is facing some extreme challenge.
Summarizing--and remember that this is my opinion, conflicted though it is--ALL lives matter, rights for EVERYONE, PRIDE for everyone. In my mind, I want to erase all those distinctions and divisions to actually see everyone as equal, as opposed to reinforcing the image that we should be different.
Oh, there's such a long discussion and debate there! That is where I will stop with my own world view.
END JEFF MEYER'S DIATRIBE
On to your poem. This is a powerful and honest piece of writing! True, too, if not universal to every area. What struck me so hard about this poem is the lack of accusation. True, it IS accusatory; but it is not...how is it best said...? It's not judgmental. It really emphasizes, for this reader, that despite my own views and ideals, there ARE two sides to this coin, that it IS important to emphasize that Black Lives Matter. It creates the discussion within myself; it makes me THINK. Writing that actually makes a person think, and consider their own position on something is the most powerful and important writing there is.
This resounds with me so personally and strongly that it is hard to articulate. I guess that means I am speechless.
Despite any preconceptions or jaundices in my own heart and mind, this poem is not only good, but IMPORTANT.
Excellent work.
----------------------------------
- reviewed by -
--Boulden Shade (formerly known as Jeff Meyer)--
----------------------------------
---Reviewed for WDC SuperPower Reviewers---
|
|