Zero Dark Thirty

The use of the military slang "zero dark thirty", or a time after darkness has fallen, is clever. In combination with the rather elegant rhythm of this poem it creates a picture of addiction, alienation, sexual disease (herpetic, a word I didn't know and had to look up the definition of), and despair. It feels a bit like one of those grunge songs that were popular in the '90s.

Thank you for being my first comment on this one. I'm glad you found some things you liked. Thank you for the read. The poem is more symbolic of my emotions than a true story, just to say. I wanted to create the darkest yet most poetic piece I could. Thanks again for checking it out. Oh and herpetic memories meant bad ones that never stop coming back.

I never assume too much that a poem is literally about the poet, so you don't need to worry there! I've had people ask if a poem I've written is about me when it's been written from the perspective of a Middle Ages Christian preacher haha, so I know how troublesome that can be.

Alright cool 👌well again, I'm glad you looked into it. Your opinion counts to me. I believe you to be very talented.

As an alcoholic this one resonates with me ... I too like the military reference ... because it is a battle ... is a war ...

Thank you for the add and for setting aside the time to check it out. I am flattered that you enjoyed it because I also have much respect for your work and if you enjoyed then I must be doing something decent. Again, thank you for your time and interest. It means alot.

Your flow from stanza to stanza felt effortless.... This whole piece made me ache with an empathic heart and a mind and soul that shortly followed after... fighting addiction.... it's a individualized nightmare.... I send positive and good vibes out into the world for whoever might need the boost of support....

I thank you for sharing
To me, regardless of who you are writing about, it's a brave effort.... / endeavor.

Much love and respect from across the pond ✨
🌹 - 💙
B

You are yet another very talented poet that I respect greatly so just having your interest brings me so much joy. I feel so proud right now. Thank you again for your time and interest. It means the world to me. I've read your work and you are so superior in skill so I'm frankly blushing after reading this. I know my work is edgy and scares people off so it is such a big deal for me to have people I respect truly understanding the depth of my work. You are the best. Thank you so much!🤘👌😎🤩

This one gives me chills. It paints a picture of the singular battle of addiction and how isolated it can become after you're in too deep. Reminds me of Layne Staley. If you're not familiar with his work or his story you should check it out. Very impressive!

I most certainly am. Stories like his are partial inspiration for that poem. I'm a big Alice in chains fan so excellent deduction on your part. Thank you again and again for all the reads. It means the world to me 🤘😎

It read as though you were channeling Kurt Cobain. You wrote it with power and authority. The dark feel of the addict was done to perfection. Your use of rhyme was excellent. All in all a gut-level exploration of the world of the addict.

John

I love this comment bro. I'm sorry it took so long. Your words were an incredible compliment that I really appreciate. Thank you.

No problem with the wait. Enjoyed the poem thoroughly. A true blue Bukowski poem if I never read one.

John

I love Bukowski. You are dead on.

Love this poem poem it was a pretty interesting and intriguing write I want to know what inspired you to write this?

Thank you for the read, comment, and add. I always appreciate it. It's nice to see you on here 😎

Thank you for the read, comment, and add. I always appreciate it. It's nice to see you on here 😎

dearest William this is so very dark and real
you really bring your reader into this place
with an honest and brave telling❤

Thank you for the kind words. They mean alot. Sometimes darker poems scare people away and they discredit the whole poem just because it's dark lol so it's nice when it still gets appreciated!

Great flow to this.  I can relate as a person who stood by and watched alcohol take my sons father. Watching the decline at a safe distance did nothing to pad my heart where my son was concerned. Addiction is hell, for the addict and for those who love them.

Thank you for the read and the compliment. You are absolutely right about addiction. It's like a war for the soul. I appreciate you adding it to your reading list and taking the time to leave me this comment. You're the best.

Definitely has a great flow and a really powerful message about the horrors of addiction. This had a vivid imagery for me that really transported into this horrific situation experiencing even the death at the end.  This has intensity in message and delivery.

Thank you so much for the accurate and gracious compliment. You noticed all the things I'd want the reader to and liked them. Awesome!
I appreciate your time and the add!

this could be like a song...

Thank you. I try very hard to have rhythmic lines in my work! I appreciate you reading more and I'm very happy you like!

I’m not sure how to respond, as this piece is so raw, genuine and heartfelt and I’m not sure i could find adequate words. I felt this piece with every part of me.

Wow that is very nice of you to say.
I'm honored you think so!
Thank for for the read and I hope to see more of you!

Of course! I just saw it and knew I had to let you know how much it touched me. I hope to see more from you as well.

You will and if you like this one you'll love the rest. Thank you!