Like a film noir movie this has the effects of heartbreak and loneliness with a touch of moral ambiguity. I can feel the barren parts of life all over it. Good one, J.

I wholeheartedly agree with Tim. This does have a film noir ambiance to it. Were you by any chance wearing a trench coat and a low brimmed fedora while writing it? Lol, so good to have your presence here, J. Like you never missed a beat!

Reminds me of all those movies about city angst. (I am suppressing a rant about how much I hate New York), and all it’s denizens… I can see them now walking down seedy sidewalks in the rain, their furthest horizon in easy walking distance. Beautiful imagery sir, and a nice reminder of how happy I am in a town with only about twelve occupied houses.

good evening dearest Jacob love the metaphor employed now south paw keep it up❤

You use knowledge and skill every time, sir: combination metaphorical thus appropriately descriptive!

pugilism can be such a rewarding metaphor and you work this well. remember in one’s twenties crashing the typewriter until fingers bled?

An interesting take on a writer’s struggle to create. Personally, I try to ignore the corner’s unhelpful screams. The “meat” of any poem or story is most important, and not everyone will manage to beat it into something worthy of sharing.

Welcome to Stars Rite, Jacob🍷

As an “olde” karateka, your title naturally drew me into this one … and, one thing about your always stellar Free Verse, one never knows from what direction next the skilled metaphorical jabs, hooks, and knockouts’ll come, but we can rest assured, they will, and winners every time.

Diction, grammar, consonants, and vowels can certainly be worthy opponents for a struggling writer … who must keep alert to aggressive verbal vernacular to survive through bouts of defensive blocks. Sooo many times I’ve felt like throwing-in the towel — some’ve said i should’ve … LOL!

Alas, after so many years serving together on WC, it’s wonderful knowing you’re here, too … this site’s in for a real treat.
Hope your weekend’s filled with happy smiles! ⁓ Richard🖌