Unlearning

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

The poem explores the complexities of healing and vulnerability within a loving relationship, centering on the tension between ingrained trauma responses and the desire for connection. The structure is spare, with short lines and stanzas that mirror the halting, tentative process of self-examination and apology. The use of direct address ("you give me nothing but grace...") establishes intimacy, while the repetition of apologies at the end underscores the speaker's struggle with guilt and self-awareness.

The phrase "muscle memory / honed in on survival" effectively conveys how past experiences shape present behavior, and the reference to "the body keeps the score" situates the poem within a broader discourse on trauma and embodiment. However, the poem relies on familiar language and concepts, which may limit its emotional impact. Phrases like "I'm sorry you have to see me like this" and "trust me / the body keeps the score" could be further individualized or made more specific to the speaker's unique experience. The poem might benefit from concrete imagery or sensory detail to ground the abstract emotions.

The line breaks generally serve the pacing, but some enjambments (such as "and trust me / the body keeps the score") could be reconsidered for greater emphasis or clarity. The poem's tone is earnest and confessional, but the emotional arc remains relatively static; introducing a shift or complication—perhaps a moment of hope, or a more nuanced portrayal of the relationship—could add depth.

Overall, the poem demonstrates an understanding of the subject matter and employs a clear, direct voice, but would be strengthened by more original language and specific detail.

Please send feedback about Neo (our AI critique system) to neopoet.com/contact

the body keeps score, but the heart can make a difference! I love this; if you can write about this, who knows, maybe you can encourage another to take the chance on love one more time. Nicely done, ~ Geez.

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