Reviews from

Asphodel Meadows

The final journey

18 total reviews 
Comment from Wendy G
Excellent
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An excellent poem with a recurring line, and reference to Greek mythology. It is well composed and thoughtfully presenting the options for the after life. Best wishes for your entry.
Wendy

 Comment Written 20-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 20-Aug-2023
    Thank you, Wendy.
Comment from Mia Twysted
Excellent
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Thank you for the notes. It added new meaning to the piece after I read it. I have never heard of the different planes where souls could go. So you read for greatness, but in the end, most people are an equal amount of good and evil. That might be why most end up at the Asphodel meadows.

 Comment Written 20-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 20-Aug-2023
    I definitely would aspire to Asphodel Meadows, if I believed the legend. Thanks for your comments, I agree with your assessment of most people.
Comment from RodG
Excellent
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I enjoyed this Kyrielle about a Greek(?) who knows he will be dying shortly, but won't be going to Elysium or Tartarus. I had not known the third possibility--Asphodel Meadows. Thanks for those terrific Notes. Rod

 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    I figured if someone didn't know the story at all, the poem wouldn't make much sense without some explanation! Thanks for the kind comments.
Comment from JSD
Excellent
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Excellent. No explanation required with my extensive knowledge of the classics. Lol. Actually, one has a picture of coins on the eyes to pay the ferryman? Interesting. I love this poem. It rhymes well, it is lilting in its rhythm, and it is philosophical too. Well done and good luck. I'll try to remember to vote.

 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    In modern writings, I've seen both the eyes and mouth, as well as some who say it just had to be placed on or near the body. The only quotes I've seen from ancient sources suggest the mouth. Coins on the eyes have an interesting practical use, though. I believe when rigor sets in, the eyes won't stay closed, so some have taped coins over them to keep the lids down. Apparently, this was done for President Lincoln. Thanks for the very generous comments :)
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
Excellent
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Heavenly flowers beckon here in a final journey and I found your words spiritual and faithful and wish you luck with the contest. The last stanza is my favourite, love Dolly x

 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    Thank you, Dolly. The kind remarks are much appreciated.
Comment from Karen Cherry Threadgill
Excellent
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I understood without the lesson and was amazed at how easy the words seemed to blend together.The Page like the river Lethe awaiting a drink before going further on. Your poem was exquisite.
Karen

 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    You seem to be well acquainted with the story :) Thanks for the delightful comments, much appreciated.
reply by Karen Cherry Threadgill on 19-Aug-2023
    I was crazy about Mythology it started when I was around 10. We had a great library and I read every book they had. You write very lyrically.
    Keep it up,Karen
Comment from Paul Manton
Excellent
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I congratulate the writer of this fine kyrielle on their knowledge and research, apparent not only in the poem, but also in the footnotes.

A lovely picture of an Alpine meadow shows exactly where many would like to spend eternity - including the Ancient Greeks. Their view of heaven and hell was a long way from modern views, when 'hell' is more likely to mean extinction.

The eight syllable line quatrains are faultless, with the refrain fitting the meaning seamlessly. The narrative is coherent and attractive - I particularly enjoyed the idea that both Jekyll and Hyde die 'together' - very stylish.

A great kyrielle and a great contender for this competition. Good luck!

Paul

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 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    Thank you very much Paul. I appreciate the kind comments and good wishes.
reply by Paul Manton on 19-Aug-2023
    Welcome.
Comment from Barry Penfold
Excellent
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Glad you put in the explanation. Like the image and rhyming. Seems the fee was a must pay one. Interesting. Take care and have a good day.
Regards
Barry Penfold.

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The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.

 Comment Written 18-Aug-2023


reply by the author on 18-Aug-2023
    Thank you. I appreciate the comments. Have a good one.