Claudia's Response to Melda's Poems:

Claudia’s Response to Melda’s Poems:
Childhood
This poem is about the loss of childhood due to violence. The violence seems to be either on the streets or in a war zone, both of which have similarities. She is trying to hide and run away from this violence, however it seems to catch up to her. Worse than anything however is the loss of innocence. I liked this poem and feel it is quite relevant in today’s world. The bolded words make for an interesting sentence—“hiding gunshots run forward back childhood never.” Don’t know if this was purposeful but it is impactful. A sad commentary on life and one which I wonder was an experience you had as a young girl.
Goodbye
I get the sense that this is about a woman saying goodbye to someone she cares deeply about who is perhaps going off to war. She is angry and unbearably sad knowing that this person may never return. It is a very emotional piece wherein she bares her soul for all to feel and experience with her. This poem ties in with Childhood in that the reader gets the sense of loss and emotional impact the poet has experienced. Again, this is a relevant poem that imparts the full emotionality of the writer.
Thanks-Claudia