FEEDBACK FROM READERS OF A MAN ON THE TIGHTROPE

 

GK

 

In A man on the Tightrope I can see you use metaphor for life in a translucent way between the man in the painting and yourself. It is analogous to a famous poem written by Immortal Poet from Tang Dynasty, Li Bai, "I raise my cup to the Moon and invite her to join me," The conversation between you and the man on the tightrope is very similar; and the understanding is mutual without any barriers. The man holding a pole on the tightrope is like an albatross taking his first flight; he has to balance his long wings to take off. A sustainable life depends on how we overcome fears, by keeping eyes focused, toes nailed on the wire, pole balanced, and mind sharp. This poem culminates in the last 10 lines; it is shocking that the ending comes suddenly, like the story of the movie “Perfect Storm.”

  

I like the last line:

It does not matter how the world turns and twists,

drifted, swayed, and blew in the wind; 

 

Did he learn how to fall?

Still he holds onto his pole.

His pole is the Way in the teaching of Taoism.

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LM

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I took great pleasure in rereading your poem, A Man on the Tightrope.  The imagery is so vivid, your communication with the man, so touching.  I have, of course, printed it out and placed it in between the pages of the Poet Laureate Anthology.  I look forward to reading more of your poetry.

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LR

 

It’s such a strong metaphor about life, and how the answers came when he paused to wonder how. Lovely!

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JK

 

I feel like this fella on the tightrope thinking about the years I have left and making my way along that tightrope. Your work is terrific. 

 

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HC

 

Beautiful poem!  A reminder to always strive to stay grounded and strong, despite what's happening all around us beyond our control.

 

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MC

 

I enjoyed reading A Man on the Tightrope. I suppose poetry expresses the feelings and quest about life and the poet’s own life. 

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SF

 

Again, another masterpiece.  Your voice speaks, your talent amazes.

 

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RW

 

A Man on the Tightrope is always full of confidence. We sweat for him, but he walks steadily, with spirit so brave and admirable till arriving at the opposite side. Such encouraging life's example for us. I hope you picked him up from the broken glass pieces on the floor, set him back up on the wall to walk again and continues to be your life's inspiration.

 

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LM2

 

Wow! This is a spectacular poem filled with tension, vision and metaphor.  The ending was so unexpected and so perfect. Bravo.

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JL

 

I really enjoyed the poem: it’s sort of gripping to one’s inner core. Won’t let go....I loved the ending as well, not your regular routine ones. I mean, you get to think what would happen? So if l ever write, this is a perfect example. Huge thanks, appreciate every twist and turn. You can almost see it!!

 

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ML

 

What a metaphor and reflection of real life. The meaning is deep and inspiring, however you
look at it.

 

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SH

 

A whole life’s journey of learning process all detailed in a few clear sentences.  That is the beauty of a poem.

 

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JW

 

Thought-provoking!  Very intriguing!  Did the man have any choice?  Did he have a higher and farther perspective up there? Was it worth the struggle?  Isn’t an eventual fall inevitable anyway?  Would learning how to fall have made any difference?

 

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AN

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Love this poem.  You caught the essence of life through the painting.  I enjoyed it more than once.