I rarely visit the Writers' Forum [pressure of time etc], and was somewhat surprised to find a piece of work of mine reproduced in its entirety here. I would never post another person's work in one of the forums without at the very least informing that person. Indeed, I would feel that it would be common courtesy to ask permission first. However, it may be that an old fogey like me is a little too concerned with good manners, so let that pass ...

I do remember the comment made by billy on my poem and brief discourse, and also the strong response of another commentator. I have to say here that I am interested in and appreciative of all comments on my pieces [and I'm confident that the vast majority of people who post in the Writer's Gallery share my view]. I never comment on comments - whether they contain 'praise or blame' - I take a somewhat Kiplingesque view and consider both as impostors. If advice is offered I will treat it seriously, consider it and if it advances the poetic voice I'm trying to develop I will use it if and when I decide to revise the piece. 

I'm far more concerned with the mis-direction this thread has taken, and the implication that it is the author's ego which is at issue here. I certainly don't seek 'pats on the back' and to imply such - even indirectly - is insulting in the extreme. 

It needs to be clearly stated that this was a dispute between a critic and another commentator, and thus DOES NOT INVOLVE THE AUTHOR IN ANY WAY. 

Finally, I have to say that if ever I decided to write a detailed analysis/critique on some piece of writing I would be prepared to receive comments to the contrary without complaint if only to demonstrate that is not critics who sometimes have the more sensitive egos.

Mike