Hey there! Plume here, with a review!!
Gosh, the focus on memory in this poem is gorgeous. I love how consistent it is throughout. Every word just overflows with references to time and memory and the past. The word choice is definitely one of my favorite parts of the poem. The poem itself is a super great example of why word choice matters.
I also love the list format too. (Reminded me a little of the 'packing list for a trip i won't return from.') It was interesting how your last stanza was part of the list; I wondered if there was a reason for that. Personally, I feel like it would work better if it almost sandwiched the poem with the first stanza. They mirror each other in a way, given how they both have two lines and refer to the list that's the body of the poem. The fact that it is part of the list does make it seem like the list isn't complete yet, which goes well with the whole idea of passing time. I think it could work both ways, depending on what you want to go for!
I thought your first stanza was really interesting. The words you used are very methodical and business-like, and a bit at odds with the rest of the poem. Even in the stanza, you've got juxtaposition. The "comprehensive account" reads more like a memo or a report, but then you turn to dreams, which are more poetic, intangible things. It immediately hooks the reader in. Your use of a semicolon there is also really interesting. Without the semicolon, it would imply that the dreams are being held for another day, and originally, my mind read it as such. But with the semicolon, a more prolonged pause is created than just the line break would bring, and when you factor in the traditional grammatical usage of a semicolon (and I know grammar rules are a bit bent in poetry but still), the two lines read like separate phrases, one being "this is a comprehensive account of every dream" and the other being "I am holding for another day." Not sure if that was intentional, but the fact that the meaning completely changes depending on the pause is super cool!
Specifics
i pretend this is not me; and this is not you.
The simplicity of this line is really killer and presents a unique and poignant way to look at memories.
they might be knitted into a net for catching shooting stars,
I love the sound devices in this line; "knitted into a net" is super fun with the consonance of the "n," and the "-ing" on "catching" and "shooting" forms a really nice rhythm.
I also adore your second stanza. The pain that came with it was surprising. Plans that can never come to fruition isn't something that outwardly seems heartbreaking, but the way you described it here was so sad. The last line about the speaker following empty space was so bittersweet. It was just so unique and satisfying, that stanza. Really nice work!!
I could spend a really long time reviewing this poem, but for your sake and mine, I'll end it here. I really, really love this poem, and I hope to read more of your work soon! Until next time!!
Points: 88180
Reviews: 704
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