Survival.

The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet’s AI:

The poem employs a clear extended metaphor, using a garden and its roses as embodiments of buried trauma and the process of survival. The choice to externalize internal pain through the physical imagery of screaming roses and bleeding petals is effective, providing a visceral anchor for the reader. The metaphor is sustained throughout, lending cohesion to the narrative arc.

Structurally, the poem is divided into distinct movements: denial and suppression, confrontation with the consequences, and finally, a tentative acceptance and healing. The progression is logical and emotionally resonant, with the shift from avoidance (“buried my past”) to engagement (“I step into the garden”) marking a turning point. The use of enjambment and short lines in the later stanzas mirrors the halting, tentative process of facing pain.

Imagery is a strength here, particularly in lines such as “Their thorns caught the memories, / petals split with grief,” and “I poured them into the soil, / where memory rooted deep.” These lines evoke both the violence and the possibility of growth inherent in the healing process. The personification of the garden allows for a dialogue between self and memory, culminating in the act of validation (“I hear you, / I see you, / I’m here…”).

There is some repetition of emotional states (“cry for help,” “relentless sobs,” “cry for the flowers”), which reinforces the poem’s themes but may risk redundancy. Consider whether each instance adds new emotional or narrative information, or if some could be condensed for greater impact. The phrase “Sewing validation / and acceptance” appears to use “sewing” where “sowing” might be intended; if intentional, it introduces a secondary metaphor, but if not, it could be clarified.

The poem’s diction is generally direct and accessible, which suits the confessional tone. However, certain abstractions (“pain I never named,” “prayers for healing”) could be further grounded in sensory detail to deepen the reader’s immersion. The final stanza effectively circles back to the initial act of burying, creating a sense of closure and reflection.

Overall, the poem demonstrates a thoughtful approach to metaphor and emotional progression. Attention to concision and specificity could further strengthen the work’s impact.

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Good metaphors, expresses the intensity of your feeling, through flowers and gardens, images of soil and buried pain, nice to share this poem

There are one or two little things i'd change, but nothing urgent. Just take a little time to let it live. If your still not happy with it, read again and go to work. 

                 Regards Roscoe....