Looking Back at the Night Van Gogh Shot Himself

[BobBradshaw]

Looking Back at the Night Van Gogh Shot Himself

Often I'm asked about the night Van Gogh
staggered into our boarding house,

bent over, groaning. He had shot himself
with a revolver. A telegram was sent

to Theo, who arrived mid afternoon.
All night he sat by his brother's side.

Even now, entering a room I half expect
to see our Monsieur Vincent sitting up

in bed, smoking a pipe, eyes closed. Calm,
as if thankful it would soon be over.

[Billy]

This is brilliant. Don't change a thing.

[FranktheFrank]

Bob, I gave you my take on the poem. I stick to my guns, too much like the Wiki article, needs expanding in my opinion.

[BobBradshaw]

Thanks, Billy

[Michael (MV)]

Welcome BobBradshaw

Actually, I have read this several times,

Wonderful to hear Billy say it before

although I'm phrasing it as: with the brilliance of Van Gogh




we are constantly celebrating - with faith art Creativity - that here is not meant to be the forever




Michael (MV)

[BobBradshaw]

Thanks, Michael. I'm happy that you enjoyed it. I appreciate your kind comments.

[FranktheFrank]

I am telling how I see a poem. I understand you do not agree.
But that is the workshop process.
I am not saying it to be mean spirited.
I have had some poems savaged and thanked them and the poem won.
I respect the right of fellow poets to give an honest opinion.
Being kind is laudable, but not always workshopping.

[Billy]

I didn't say I liked the poem to be kind. When I read this poem and recently the dog bowl poem, I immediately sensed a good poem, a poem that was complete in its purpose and it was like reading some well-known poets I like. There was a feeling in me when reading your poem of real life, of being there and the last line made it memorable and just the right amount of tension for the reader to ponder.

[FranktheFrank]

My remarks were directed wholly at Bob, the poet.

[BobBradshaw]

Thanks, Frankly. I appreciate all poets taking the time to comment. Thx for your honest opinions.