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Michael Anthony

Sep 26, 2022 ⭐ View statistics (Premium feature)

The Olive Grove

She offered me an olive branch
Small then, at first,
not much more than a seedling,
but without guile
A truce from skirmishes of the heart

We are arborists now
tending to the bounty
in an overfilled grove
planted these many years ago

About This Poem

Last Few Words: 12th anniversary gift for my wife.

Review Request Direction: What did you think of my title?
What did you think of the rhythm or pattern or pacing?
How does this theme appeal to you?
How was the beginning/ending of the poem?

Review Request Intensity: I appreciate moderate constructive criticism

Editing Stage: Editing - polished draft

About the Author

Region, Country: San Francisco Bay Area - USA, USA

Favorite Poets: Bukowski, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Haiku & Harvey Kurtzman (a visual poet, of sorts)

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Comments

Geezer

2 years 9 months ago

I am going...

to suppose that the relationship between you and your wife started out in a tumultuous fashion and developed into something better after she extended that olive branch? At any rate, Happy 12th Anniversary! I like the metaphorical title and the rhythm
is good. The theme kind of reminds me of my own experience with my wife of thirty-three years. Congratulations! ~ Geezer.
.

Michael Anthony

2 years 9 months ago

Thanks Geez! Your comments

Thanks Geez! Your comments made me want to rethink the first stanza for clarity. I was trying to convey that I had finally found the "right" one after years of failures, but I can see how your interpretation could be made as well. I like the published version too, but will tinker...

Congrats on 33 years to you sir!

Best

Jackweb

2 years 9 months ago

I like this piece!

Your choice of words are well fitted in the line. The perfect weaving technique throughout the texture of the pen draws the reader to life.
.

Jackweb

2 years 9 months ago

Every man

... is the husbandman in their family. We take charge and responsibility as well.
.

Jackweb

2 years 9 months ago

Nice title!

The figuarative title makes communication and language beautiful, colorful and vivid. You took time to say a little word yet the poem is packed with full note of narration. Every marriage has its own sweet/ bitter tale to tell.

Excellent expression!
.

Michael Anthony

2 years 9 months ago

Thanks J! This piece seemed

Thanks J! This piece seemed to resonate with you, and I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Cheers

Lavender

2 years 9 months ago

The Olive Grove

Hi, Michael,
What beautiful words used to express the necessity of nurturing a marriage, and helping it thrive for 12 years! Love everything about this from title to end. What a lovely gift!
Thank you!
L

Michael Anthony

2 years 9 months ago

Hi L,

Thank you for visiting and taking the time to share your comments - always appreciate that!

Best