This is very good. I even went back and read it again, to absorb all that it offers. It’s well thought out. Quite an accomplished write. I love that it held my interest all the way through. Well done.

Compelling throughout & what a novel concept you have introduced me to .. Story poems so become you .. and consequently awarded x5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐plus the prestigious Nev’s dubble 👍👍

I liked how this poem came out. I never saw them (Obsession and this one), as Part 1 and Part 2, though I realize that’s what they are. A part 3?? not sure, it’s been 20 years since these 2 poems were written, but I will think about it.

Thank you ‘HER’. I am glad you enjoyed the read.

I chose the Lauren Daigle song, not for its religious implications, but because I wanted music that gives HOPE, and most of this song does exactly that.

Good stuff. Empowering with its message to the masses that can take the time and embrace it.

This would be my favorite sonnet I read from you so far. So powerful, so moving, and unfortunately true… Though, we women struggle more around the world, but I couldn’t help but see this as the test any human would have. I have to admit that I’m one of those who could/can not lose Faith no matter how much I’ve went/go through, I have to admit too, that it’s NOT easy when everything screams the otherwise. no one can live without having a certain belief in anything, and I’m not only speaking religiously here. You put all your emotions here, from anger to despair to empathy and compassion to HOPE… Great poem my friend, Thank You 💕

When I think about this oppression, and see how real it is, it becomes too hurtful, too much to take. Two issues that have fueled my revolutionary desires and dreams for a different and better world are the oppression of Black people and the oppression of half of humanity that are female. Your short comment is deeply felt, thank you.

Thank you Light. I took and appreciated very much the depth of what you have said. I think everyone has a “faith” and belief, even if it is just a negative self centered one. For me the question is how do we use it? Do we use it to change the ugliness around us? Or do we use it to hide us from this ugliness? I write poetry that is aesthetic and yet make the reader feel, feel alive, feel hope, feel that we humans can affect everything around us and this can spread far beyond the space we occupy at any given time. Oscar Wilde once said, “We all are living in the gutter; but some of us are looking at the stars.” I think he should have added, “And those of us who can see the stars find the ways to allow others to see the stars as well.”

I am happy you found this poem and left me this beautiful comment.

Phenomenally penned, Tim. You’re a great storyteller my friend, felt like a western to me. Excellent write. Appreciate you.

Damian

This does give a western vibe. I like the listening to the tree to hear the screaming.

I normally do not read the short story section, but I was curious, so…
Revenge is sometimes blinding. This write shows that to be true.
Your story reads fluid, interesting, carrying the scenes forward really well. The epilogue (of sorts) leaves the reader pondering, perhaps for a continuation.
Great write, Tim.

This was very engaging. Some of those dead have unfinished business. Great ink.

Hi Tim!
This reminds me of an episode of Hell on Wheels! And the pic really reinforces the tone of the story.
Gritty with emotion and guns. How it was back then. Black and white with a lot of dust instead of grey.
Truly enjoyed the read amigo. It’s nice seeing friends post in different categories.

Tim you have mastered the art of putting so much action, plot development, and powerfully emotional story telling into the short story form. This takes you into the heart of Joshua and his tragic mistake leading to his ending. Gritty and strong telling of this tale that engaged me as I read. Not a line wasted. A perfect economy of words that brings this tale home in a big way.

John

Classic…..made me giggle.

I thought you loved me….brilliant

Okay first stanza is the shocker.
Then you twisted it in the last stanza.
Mouth open all through this read. Then I laughed.

I enjoyed this surprising tale. That darn Agnes!

She’s appeared in two previous pieces. She’s the church bookkeeper who is stealing to fund her casino addiction.

Saint Nick might have a fondness for other pastors wives….he’s human after all.
🙏

I read this backward. I read the second piece before this. Now it makes sense. lol No Sparks,,yeah right