• Night Light

    Night Light

    five/seven/five poem about swans
    from 12 reviews.
    General  Poetry

  • The End

    The End

    6 word poem
    from 5 reviews.
    General  Poetry

  • haiku (Bird of Paradise)

    haiku (Bird of Paradise)

    haiku
    from 10 reviews.
    General  Poetry


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Regrets finished second in the contest "2-6-2"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: haiku (dark mysteries) finished second in the contest "Haiku"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Melancholy Dance finished second in the contest "5 Line Poem"
    Mrs. KT: Congratulations, Val!

    diane -
    Val Crisson: Thank you! I've never seen so many ties in one contest! -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Faded Red Kayak finished third in the contest "Tanka Poetry Contest"
    Mrs. KT: Congratulations, Val!

    diane -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Yellow Rose finished third in the contest "Nature 5-7-5"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Nature's Cradle finished first in the contest "3-5-3"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Resurrection of Hope finished first in the contest "5-7-5 Hope"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: haiku (orange pumpkins) finished second in the contest "Haiku"
    Senyai: Congratulations, Val! 🎉 -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Morning Visitor finished second in the contest "15 Syllable Poem"
    Senyai: Congratulations on your win!! 🎉 -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Up in Smoke finished second in the contest "Write a Naani"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: haiku (speedy hummingbird) finished third in the contest "Haiku"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Congratulations! Woven won the contest "5-7-5 Poem"
    Hitcher: Congratulations of the win friend, excellent entry ! -
    rspoet: Congratulations Val!. You've woven a fine 5-7-5 poem. Well done! -
    Ginnygray: Congratulations to you, Val on a great win! -
    The Death: Congratulations, Val! So glad you won. -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Whisper finished third in the contest "Lune Poetry Contest"
    rspoet: Congratulations, Val! Well done. -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Congratulations! tanka (robin's nest) won the contest "Tanka Poetry Contest"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: tanka (red roses) finished third in the contest "Tanka"
    Dean Kuch: Congratulations on your 3rd place finish, Val.
    ~Dean :) -
    Val Crisson: Thank you so much for your gracious reply. By the way, I didn't even check out this site until today. But as usual, about what I expected. -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Congratulations! Left Behind won the contest "Lune Poetry Contest"
    l.raven: CONGRATULATIONS on well deserved win...xxoo love Linda -
    Val Crisson: Thank you all for the Congratulations! This subject is near and dear to my heart. Val -
    kiwigirl2821: Val, congrats my friend. So proud of you xx deborah -
    krys123: Congratulations Val

    Alex -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Caught in Time finished first in the contest "5-7-5 butterflies"
    Val Crisson: I was shocked this won with the other entry. -
    Val Crisson: BUT I AM VERY HAPPY FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS -
    trimple: Congratulations, Val.

    I have no fingernails left! :) -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Wild Trinity finished second in the contest "5-7-5 flower"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Pink Tears finished second in the contest "5-7-5 Poetry Contest"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Old Garden finished first in the contest "Naani"
    BeasPeas: Congratulations on your win. Marilyn -
    Taffspride: Congratulations Val, a well deserved win.
    -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Morning Calm finished third in the contest "Write a 3-5-3"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: haiku (sultry sun) finished third in the contest "Sunset Haiku"
    michaelcahill: A real beauty, and a standout in one of the best groupings in a LONG time. Congrats! -
    Val Crisson: Thank you both for your very kind comments, as there were several very good ones in this contest. And I believe one was yours michacahill. -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Pumpkins Ablaze finished second in the contest "The beauty of autumn (5-7-5)"
    Val Crisson: I am thankful for this second place win, but I must admit, I think contests where the author's name is displayed works against me. I don't think I will be entering any of these anymore, since I feel many vote for people that are "fans" or have writing relationship with rather than real talent. -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: The Gathering finished third in the contest "It's NAANI Time"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Treasure Hunt finished third in the contest "Naani Poem"


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Ann's Roses finished second in the contest "5-7-5 Poem"
    Val Crisson: Hugs Ann, I hope you didn't mind I used your beautiful name. I also have a sister in law that has recently passed with your name.
    -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: Empty Shells finished first in the contest "Naani - love"
    Taffspride: Congratulations Val, well deserved win. -
    rama devi: Congrats, Val. I voted for yours! :) -
    Val Crisson: Thank you to you so much for the congratulations
    -


FanStory wrote to Val Crisson: haiku (salty waves) finished second in the contest "Write a Haiku"
    Val Crisson: Thank you! How do you now divide the money between 1st, 2nd and third (if there is a third). -
    F. Wehr3: Based on the number of entries, you get twenty five percent. First gets fifty percent. Since there was a tie for third they receive twelve and half percent. -
    Val Crisson: thank you this new is all new to me, though i have been on this site for all long time. I have taken a long break. -


Val Crisson: Seriously, what happened to the winter haiku prompt contest. I've tried to reach the "powers that be" but no one has gotten back to me. The committee said it should take some time, but it has almost been 24 hours????
    FanStory: If there is a delay it usually means the committee is working with someone to help them make the edits needed so the post qualifies. We try to avoid disqualification now when possible. -
    Val Crisson: It has been over 24 hours??? How much editing does a haiku need. -
    I am Cat: well it's there now, I suppose we all know that you have one in there now. lol -
    Val Crisson: Well, "I am Cat," I suppose you were on the committee of reviewers???? -


Val Crisson: So I feel I've been completely screwed by a Fanstory committee, I'm throwing this out there to see if I'm really off base on this one. So here is the issue, are mass and expanse a direct rhyme????? I was disqualified from a haiku contest for this. I would like other's opinions, but none from the committee.
    Taffspride: The committee are way off, mass and expanse are not even close rhymes. There is no way they can be called a rhyme, they cannot even be made to sound the same.
    -
    Val Crisson: Thank you, Anne, yet I was. And in my humble opinion it was a good haiku -
    Taffspride: I disagree they are not even slant rhymes. -
    Val Crisson: Anne, is right and the directions called for no "direct" rhymes, which neither of these words are. -
    rama devi: They share assonance and consonance but do not rhyme as they don't have the same END sound. -
    Val Crisson: I thank everyone for their support on this subject, but the committee is standing by their ruling. I feel much better about this, since the quality of poets or haijin that have agreed me are some of my favorite. -
    Julia.: I would consider them slant rhymes, but they are definitely not true or strict rhymes. -
    Mystic Angel 7777: I feel for you, Val, as I read it and think it is far from a strict end rhyme. Rise above as you are an excellent writer and this little obstacle is something to learn from and you will no doubt eclipse committee darkness in the future by being all the wiser. -
    Val Crisson: Don't worry, Mystic Angel, I'm over it. But I needed to make my statement, as I feel these committees really need to be more careful
    -
    Quire's Gal: Dear Val, I think what you have here is a "proximate" rhyme.
    You have the same vowel sound. I don't know the exact definition of a proximate rhyme, but you might want to look it up. -
    Quire's Gal: Maybe the "n" in expanse is the question. -
    poetadeu: I feel that this is not a direct rhyme..
    mass/panse ...not a rhyme sound -


Val Crisson: I feel real haiku is dead on this site.
    trimple: No they're not, you just have took look for them.

    Here are a few I just knocked up...

    winter melts
    breaking from the reeds
    a thaw of wings

    autumn dusk
    a moth lonely too
    circles the flame

    reflecting sunrise
    dew is pink
    on the white iris

    wisteria pond
    reflections color
    a lavender swan

    evening sunlight
    a swan's shadow
    cools the lilies

    evening shallows
    by a crow reflection
    an early star

    see! Easy peezy :) -
    Val Crisson: Really how clever. I'm so glad you think these are wonderful -
    trimple: Cheer up Val..

    they were copy pasted from the net LOL -
    trimple: Okay, so show us an amazing haiku and explain why they are great?

    I'm all for learning :) -
    Val Crisson: I figured as I haven't seen them in of these awful contests. -
    Val Crisson: Sorry, trimple, there was a time when haiku was actually respected for its true form. But now.... anything goes, which in my mind is sad. If you want to read decent haiku, I do have a few on my site. Your call -
    trimple: aw, you sound down hearted, my love :( -
    trimple: To be honest val, I only just about know where a capitol letter goes. Let alone writing a decent haiku..

    Sue is starting her Haibun soon, I may join that :)

    I'l also have a little rummage through your profile..

    hugs xx -
    Val Crisson: thank you, you've made me laugh. haibun is wonderful. hugs
    -
    trimple: Good :)

    Maybe you can try to write a senryu about smiling :) hehe xx -
    Kingsland: It's a stretch to call a haiku a piece of poetry to start with. For me it's a lazy way of writing poetry. Look I just wrote a poem in only nine words. There is so much to say about this world in poetic verse and a haiku is just not how to do it... -
    4tun81: Kingsland, that is insulting to thousands of haiku poets across the globe. Just because you and perhaps the bulk of the fanstory membership do not understand the art form does not make it any less poetic.

    By your logic no novel would be worth reading unless it were the length of War and Peace. When written well haiku says more in a few words than other say in volumes.

    To suggest that haiku poets are "lazy" is even more insulting. Clearly, you have absolutely no clue how much effort it takes to write haiku well.

    Val's initial lament is because she has seen the bulk of the serious haiku poets leave this site out of frustration in efforts to educate people about how to write and critically read this form of poetry. It is a losing battle.

    I share her feeling that, with a few notable exceptions, haiku has been dead on this site since we lost Alvin Effington and his efforts to educate. -
    Val Crisson: Joe, I'm touched by your response, and could not agree with you more. Since Alvin has passed, haiku is almost a joke on this site, except for people like you and as you say a few others.
    Kingsland it's easy to go on and on and on - using a zillion words that bore most people to death. But some one that writes a solid haiku has to be disciplined not meandering. -
    trimple: Well why don't you set up some serious competitions Val? and maybe speak to Tom about becoming one of the FS panels where you oversee the 'true haiku contests?

    If the desire is there, then why not become passionate about it and set a plan to action.

    If things have gone down hill since Alvin died, the why don't you step up, girl!

    I'm sure that many FS members would appreciate it.

    trimple -
    Val Crisson: I have set up competitions, but I agree about being a FS panel -
    Lovinia: ZOOT! ZOOT! The haiku is still alive and well ... I agree it's a shame about losing members for the reason you mention Val. Sue Galetti has made a valiant effort to bring about a greater understanding of these short forms. Education is the key ... I've just completed her Haiku and Senryu course which was excellent. I also valued Alvin Ethrington's fine classes and expertise.

    I did feel it a great pity that the class wasn't full. There seems to be so much interest in poets wanting to write these forms, yet little interest in learning what they mean, some simple rules, and even more so ... a greater understanding of the skill and often time required to write... and the participation of the reader which is an integral part of the poem. Three lines ... a lazy poem. Some of my three liners take longer to write than my much longer ones.

    A pretty three line poem (either 17 syllables or fewer or 5-7-5) is just that ... and perfectly valid in its own right. There are many pretty poems which win the haiku contests, which are not true haiku.What's wrong with calling them short, three line poems.

    Also if one wants to receive the points and dollars offered with the poem ... please ensure you are familiar with the form and rules and respect the poet enough not to give a low rating because you don't like short poems. If you don't like them ... don't review them. Poems are supposed to be reviewed on the skill in the form not on whether we like them or not.

    I love short forms and free verse first and foremost ... I can also value and appreciate the rhyme and meter poets, sonnet writers and all the rest. Even if I'm nor that enamoured with a style of poetry I give the respect to review it on its merits not on my personal opinion of the form chosen.

    I'm so pleased you have the guts to speak up Val .... if I see you have sponsored a contest ... I will always enter if I can. I also know the integrity in your reviews ... ouch I've had a three or four from you. :)) I value honest feedback like yours. I believe maybe a few poets mock the form and perpetuate a desire to 'bring them down'. Ho hum for ego's. Write the poetry that you enjoy ... no need to bag out anyone who likes something different.

    Ooops ... sorry Val .... you got me going. I better stop now and post this on my profile page as well.

    If you want to learn haiku, many poets here provide instruction and offer assistance ... Sue's classes are fabulous ... she is an absolute wealth of knowledge on the current international view on haiku, senryu and other Japanese short forms. 4tun81, Val, Jeanie Mercer, dww, sgalletti and several others write excellent poems in these forms. Learn from just reading their poems. Donald has an essay in his portfolio. Huff huff ... I've said enough. Lovi -
    Lovinia: Well, not when you drop in. A trifecta for me, three of my favourite haiku poets in first, second and third placement in the haiku site contest. We'll forget my name is missing. :)) LOL
    You're always so humble about your ability in writing these ... I just have to say, "I told you so" ... hahahaha ... after all I did give you a six for this one.

    Congratulations to you, Sue and Karyn ... keep those exceptional poems coming and the haiku will never die on FS. Huge hugs - Lovi xoxoxo -


Val Crisson: I will not be reviewing for a while, please to all I usually do review don't take offence. I'm really rethinking how I feel about critiquing on this site. It's become so "plastic" in my opinion, and I rarely get any really good advice. As I try to give honest reviews, I feel I don't at times. So if you get an average or good from me, it will be honest. I you one of my "fans" delete me, if this does not work for you.
    Domino 2: When posting, there is an 'advanced option' that allows reviews from 'writers only'. This eradicates unkind sensation seekers, and those who have no clue about poetry genres.

    Ray xx -
    Domino 2: When posting, there is an 'advanced option' that allows reviews from 'writers only'. This eradicates unkind sensation seekers, and those who have no clue about poetry genres.

    Ray xx -
    trimple:

    You can bully me all you like, just as long as I learn from it! :) -


Val Crisson: I'm thinking I will not enter a short contest, where the names are displayed.


Val Crisson: Sigh, I just got an average review on a "lune," that suggested I add another line. I'm wondering why I write on this site, with reviewers that don't have a clue????
    shelley kaye: lol! i've gotten reviews on my haiku that they're too short! :-P -
    Val Crisson: I know, why aren't reviewers held to some kind of standard. I don't mind an average or good review, when someone knows the form but seriously????? Add a line to a lune or make a haiku longer??? -
    shelley kaye: ya gotta wonder about people sometimes LOL
    -
    Julia.: "why aren't reviewers held to some kind of standard" - Because reviews have no real consequence. They're just people's opinions that you can take or leave as you will. -
    Val Crisson: Julia, I guess when I'm paying for a review, I just think the reviewer would pay attention to what form it is. None the less, you have a point. -
    Selina Stambi: I remind myself that this is a virtual world with pretend stars and we're all playing as we hone our craft. Helps with the 'sucky', ignorant reviews! -


Val Crisson: Sigh! More boring prompts....and no one is entering these contests???


Val Crisson: Crazy times right now, and have almost "zero" time to review. I'm working on another group self published book, so please my "peeps" if I don't review for a while. I have to be very selective. I'll be back soon!!!


Val Crisson: Seriously, how many suggestions did we give Tom for new prompts on the forum page???? And we're back to "Disco Inferno" - I for one am not entering a prompt contest until I se WAY BETTER and more interesting prompts. Nor, don't bother to respond.
    nor84: Why do you ask me not to respond? I know he's used some of the newer prompts, because he used one I suggested. Some others. I don't write for the prompts, however, so I can't tell you the names of the others. -
    Val Crisson: Nor, I was joking, since I knew you would respond and are usually defending the sites actions (or at least most of them). He has used "some" new prompts, including one of mine. My questions is why this tired old prompt with all the fresh new suggestions. It should be moth balled. -
    nor84: I wouldn't know how to write to that prompt -- not in a short story. It would have to be a tragedy about a fire in a disco and haven't discos gone out of style? Yes, I usually defend the site. I think Tom tries hard to give us what we ask for. -
    Domino 2: I've also noticed members seem to be bored stiff with the same old repetitive prompts, Val, and they're usually very sparsely entered.

    With all the new ideas Tom received in the forum for new ideas, he has promoted very few.

    I also agree Nor seems to support Tom whatever he says or does, and I wonder if she's either his mother or co-owner of fanstory. LOL. -
    CALLAHANMR: Hi Val:)
    About those boring prompts and repetitive ideas for stories, poems and articles; I don't look at them as anything but opportunities to find new ways of expressing myself. I think in the end all the boredom can be washed away with imagination and fresh approaches.

    Roger, Marilyn's writing partner -


Val Crisson: I've noticed there aren't many senyru, haiku, tanka, or naani contest prompts lately from "contest" ??? Interesting or sad not sure which one. I, also, have noticed most of the boring prompts are not filling up???
    Julia.: There's been more and mroe complaints lately about writing prompt contests not being properly monitored and entries that violate the rules winning. Maybe more and more members are figuring this out and deciding to pass on the contests? -
    Val Crisson: Agree, and now that Alvin is gone there's no real monitor of short forms -


Val Crisson: I REALLY hate this new format, and feel it really distracts from the words of poets. I've read several. and the lack of concentration on the presentation is horrible
    4tun81: I agree. It really diminishes the poems. It is all about the picture. -
    Julia.: I agree, also. I don't like it. -
    shelley kaye: ditto. when i post, i now always have to make sure the "traditional" one is selected....

    -
    ccto12: Hi Val. We haven't met but I saw your Naani and just came by to introduce myself (hi!) but now I'd like to ask a question since I'm reading all this here but don't understand as I'm very new here - what is this new format all about and how does differ from the previous one? I'd like to know more if you don't mind explaining. Thank you. -
    Val Crisson: Okay, I do see it now. And the "traditional" choice is much smaller, and is much more effective in short entries. I feel the larger posts loose the intimacy of the poems. Hope this helps. -
    ccto12: Thanks Val for the info. : )) -
    ccto12: Thanks Val for the info. : )) -
    JuneYvonne: Absolutely agree Val - you'd think it was more about the picture than the words. I ALWAYS choose the "traditional" format when I post. -


Val Crisson: Out of town, hope to start reviewing next week


Val Crisson: I'm not sure I like this new "format display," to me it only works for prose or loooog, wordy,, poems. It does not work for any short forms, in my humble opinion, and since I'm at it the music additions detract from the words.
    nor84: You can choose to keep the old display. There's an option when you post. -
    The Death: I agree, Val. I don't like it either--distracting it is. -
    Julia.: Val, I agree, too. It is particularly bad when accessed from an Android device. -
    Val Crisson: I know, nor84, I'm just stating my opinion -


Val Crisson: I'm so saddened by Alvin's death. We didn't always agree on certain things, but he mentored me more on haiku than anyone else on this site. I will dearly miss him, and am so sorry I never was able to take his class. May he rest in peace.
    Val Crisson: thank you for creating the contest. it helped. hugs -


Val Crisson: I am out of town for a few weeks, and won't be reviewing much.


Val Crisson: I think I might hold the record for coming in second in prompt contests!
    Joy Graham: Lucky you! I always pray to get at least one cote. -
    Joy Graham: Vote not cote, darn my fat fingers! -
    DIS-illusioned: Congratulations! ... On being the most frequent first loser! Yay! :-D) -
    Val Crisson: Some people just can't help being obnoxious. Yay! D -
    Joy Graham: It wasnt my intention to be obnoxious. -
    Lovinia: Well congrats for coming first in the haiku prompt. Well done ... bask in the glory! Maybe 2014 is going to be your year to come FIRST!! Hugs - Lovi xoxoxo -
    Lovinia: Another FIRST in the Spring haiku!

    Congratulations - I'm not bragging ...... just wanted to say "I was right". LOL

    No wait .... does this mean I won't win any haiku contests????? .... oh well, I'm used to that. :))) Hugs - Lovi xoxox -
    Val Crisson: Lovinia, you always make me smile and glad I'm on this site. Hugs Back -


Val Crisson: Okay, so here I am again. I really want to start writing free verse, but when I go to Poetry Dances it says there are some rules. But dosen't say what they are. Could some body tell me the basic rules.
    adewpearl: Free verse means free of any consistent meter. It can have occasional rhyme but doesn't have to. Even though it doesn't have consistent meter, it should have some flow to it and not sound like clunky prose. It's not just an essay divided up with line breaks.
    It also helps if you use some poetic devices to help make it sound "poetic." So simile, metaphor, personification, onomatopoeia, alliteration, consonance, assonance - any of them help, but there's not any rule that says which ones to include in what degree in any given poem. Concrete imagery with strong sensory appeal is always good. Strong emotional appeal. Hope that helps :-) -
    Val Crisson: This helps me greatly! Thank you, Brooke -
    Val Crisson: All I can say is that was a "barn burner." Also, since the haiku contest is over, whoever left me that amazing review on the on the contest comments. Thank you so much. It was an amazing critique. -
    CrystieCookie999: Congratulations on your 2nd place on the haiku contest! I noticed the website posted someone else's comment under my name, for some reason, but hope you know I was really impressed by the alliteration and imagery. -
    Val Crisson: Thank you, was that your review on the contest page? I'm a little confused. -
    Val Crisson: Crazy busy! I'll be reviewing in a few days. Haven't forgotten my friends -
    poesyapprentice: I think Brooke should be nominated to write the description for at least the Free Verse definition on Poetry dances. We need a revamp there and that is the best definition I've read from anyone on site. -
    Val Crisson: Agree, unless she had sent me her definiton of a free verse I would have been lost. Also, Tom really another boring "prompt"!!!! There were a few creative ones, but now we are back to boring. -
    Gypsy Starchild: I posted one of my favorite free verses of all time on my profile page if you want to read a nice example. :) -
    poesyapprentice: Val if you want a detailed description of free verse and techniques used then check out Donald W's profile for an article he wrote. It is fabulous! -
    Val Crisson: Took you advice, Marsha, and read it and it was very clear with a great deal of information. It really helped -
    kelly frederick: Author of Devistated left story unfinished it finished now -
    kelly frederick: Sorry you havent taken another crack at evaluating Devistated now that its done. -
    Val Crisson: My son was based in Africa, as a Navy person. I choose not to dicuss his role, and his biggest impression of Africa were the women. He said they would burn wood into tiny bits of coal, or something like that.Then a hundred pound woman would carry it for miles to make a tiny bit of money for her family. Thus my poem today. Please realize how much we take for granted. -
    Val Crisson: I thought some of the tanka contest winners were not really true tanka entries. I found some lacking the combination of nature and human emotion. -
    The Death: Hello.have a great start of the week:-) -
    The Death: Congrats!!
    Ancient river roared loudly....haha.well deserved win:-). -
    Val Crisson: Thank you Anumpam! I'm glad you liked it. -
    The Death: Ahh!It's Anupam not Anumpam lol. -
    The Death: Congratulations!!
    Your 'apple tree branch' awarded you a lot of apples in the contest -
    Val Crisson: Thank you once again, Anupam, my friend. -
    Val Crisson: Was that a senyru contest, that I just entered or five/seven/five contest? I'm very confused. I'm sure it was a senyru contest is anyone else having this problem?
    -
    Val Crisson: I'm looking to write a haibun, and had bookmarked something sent to me a long time ago. But apparently it's gone, I would appreciate anyone sending me or commenting simple instructions for a haibun. Thank you -
    Val Crisson: For anyone interested, I just posted a "haiku" contest. I'm allowing personification. -
    Val Crisson: Awesome haiku contest, I was honored to have a haiku among so many other excellent ones. -
    Wright01: That's wonderful. It's a beautiful thing to have a thing like that. Hmm, what else can I say. Keep it up. Look it up, it's your beginning. -
    Val Crisson: Once again, how many "feelings poems" can this site pull off. Boring, Boring, and Boring. And I refuse to create another prompt, and have to pay an entry fee also. Please, can we get less of the constant same!!!!! -


Val Crisson: How boring can these prompts be?? Please, don't tell me to create my own, as I have. But the site really needs to get a LITTLE more creative in it's contests and prompts.
    nor84: Check out the General Forum. Tom has a thread in there asking for suggestions. -
    Val Crisson: I may tomorrow, as I'm off to bed. But the prompts have been so ROBOTIC and repetitive, that I'm about ready to pull the plug on this site. -
    Debra White: Got to admit, I'm uninspired by the recent prompts too... -
    Val Crisson: To nor84 - I just posted something on the forum about the prompts. We'll see what happens if anything. -
    MAMONIA: Congrats on your win. It was a beautiful and deserving entry.
    Marie -


Val Crisson: I wish, when people enter a contest they would read the prompt. Also, why does someone enter a haiku contest and argue haiku rules? Rules that are clearly stated in the prompt, though I know there are many versions of haiku on this site. If someone creates a contest, it is their choice of rules!!!
    DIS-illusioned: Hmm, so what you're really saying is...your entry is the best and we should all vote for it? Okay, check. :-D -
    Val Crisson: No that is not what I'm saying. I created the contest, and I getting an argument about the prompt! Then just don't enter the contest. Why would you assume I'm looking for win
    -
    Sally Carter: I agree, Val. As you say, there are lots of opinions about haiku. If you don't like the ones in a particular contest, find a different contest - or sponsor you own! Sponsors shouldn't have to argue, when they have been good enough to give time and money to get a contest running. -
    redrider6612: LOLz was joking, Val. I think it's clear you aren't soliciting votes. It is frustrating when people argue about the guidelines. -


Val Crisson: Anyone entering my contest for the "spring haiku" - I made a mistake and said seven five seven syllable count, but I meant five seven five. I cannot seem to change the prompt, and am waiting for Tom's help.
    Taffspride: I knew what you meant Val. No problem here. x -
    Val Crisson: Thanks I hate creating confusion, and the site stll hasn't gotten back to me. So I think I will have to let anything ride. -


Val Crisson: Okay, so my computer completely crashed and was so virused they could not save any of my stuff without a great deal of money. Thank God, so many of my stories and poems are on Fanstory! Nightmare cancelled.
    Taffspride: That is awful for you.Glad at least you have your work on FS. I lost (for almost a year) everything I had backed up on my external drive. When DH got back home he was able, with some finagaling to get almost everything back for me. -
    Val Crisson: For me the lesson is - Make Hard Copies. Glad you could save your work -
    Taffspride: One of the members of our writers.group advised us all to back up our work onto flash drive, and put them in a safety deposit box. I think if I were writing full time it would be a good idea. In the meantime I rely on backing up onto my PC and DH to get me out of trouble. But I am glad you did not loose everything. That would have been a disaster.
    -


Val Crisson: This site is becoming a Soap Opera. Could we please just stick to writing and helping each other out?
    MidnightWriter4U: We can only hope, but where humans are involved there is always a Soap Opera. But it is helpful to point it out every now and then. :) -
    Lovinia: Oh What a GREAT idea!!!!! :))) -


Val Crisson: I would like to say from now on I will be reviewing honestly. I know my writing is not perfect, but I'm really going to be honest and I hope all that review my work would do the same. I'm very tired of works that are reviewed with "mega" promotions getting "All Time Best" just because they offer more money for reviews. I've been guilty of the same, but I hope to do better in the future.
    Twilightspire: :) Nobody's writing is perfect, but we should all endeavor to review honestly no matter what. -
    Val Crisson: Lovinia you're evil - it's cold here!LOL I truly "wish I was there" - Happy Easter if you celebrate, my friend. -
    Lovinia: Thanks Val ... I did have a happy Easter .. we had cook-out with my boys and mother and sister. great day. I hope yours was great also.

    Sorry - I was trying to warm you guys up....... if it will make you feel better ... we will be freezing soon .. and you will be enjoying spring and summer. :))

    Come and visit anytime! This picture is further north than I am. Still only five minutes from the beach. Lovi xoxoxo -
    poesyapprentice: Good for you on truthful reviews! Sometimes people actually value them, lol! Amazing, isn't it ; ) -
    Val Crisson: I know people just can't to seem to accept anything but excellent. I'm here to learn not collect
    "excellents" -


Val Crisson: I find when author's notes are longer than a poem - it is either an insult to the reader or their intelligence. Isn't poetry supposed to be read and enjoyed by the reader's view???
    redrider6612: I appreciate it when the poet takes the time to explain the form. I've learned a lot about different forms since I joined FS. -
    Sally Carter: I largely agree, Val. I don't mind (in fact I sometimes do it myself) an explanation of a word or phrase that may be specific to one's own country, and I agree with Red that an explanation of the form of the poem is often very interesting, but reams of notes about what the poet meant to say suggest the poem falls short of its intent. -
    Val Crisson: That was my point Sally, that paragraphs explaing the poems intention are not helpful (or at least to me). Discussing the form is different. -
    poesyapprentice: I've been guilty of the long explaining notes but I sometimes feel the need to add them because if my piece holds any depth or ambiguity at all I either get a bunch of stupid reviews where readers who don't take ANY time to give the write some thought have no clue what I'm talking about and downgrade because of their lack, or fluff reviews for the same reason. It's frustrating! -


Val Crisson: Yesterday's "six word" contest was the best I've seen on this site. There were a lot of great entries. Congratulations to Jeanne Mercer on a well deserved win. In one of my reviews (and yes I was in the contest) someone likened some entries as very haiku like. This gave a lot of food for thought.
    DIS-illusioned: Ahh! Isn't losing graciously just grand? ... (Yuk!) LOLz! :) -
    Val Crisson: Believe me I hate losing, but at least in this contest I lost to a better poem. What I really dislike is losing to a poem that doesn't even meet the prompt's directions. -
    Lovinia: Hear Hear! So do agree! Why don't voters read the contest rules?? Can't complain about Jeanie beating you ... so true.


    glitter-graphics.com

    HUGS Lovi xoxox -


Val Crisson: Why is it like "pulling teeth" to get anyone to read prose on this site? Ugh! Maybe, I should say review prose.
    Taffspride: Well I am not sure about others but I read a great deal of prose in this site. -
    nor84: I only read poems written by a few fans and both write and read prose. -
    Val Crisson: Well, that makes three of you! And I do know I've been critiqued by Taffpride, and I do believe Black Fox. But never by nor:84. So I guess two out of three isn't bad. LOL -


Val Crisson: I wish people would at least have some knowledge of haiku, before they throw out ridiculous reviews. I realize I have no idea what a good sonnet is, so I don't even try to correct one.
    Meta~Mark: Val you are a trip my friend :)_ LOL -
    Julia.: I think the problem is that this site--and it's offshoot, Poetry Dances--doesn't do a good job of describing a haiku, so anyone relying on that is likely to be overly focused on things like syllable count. I'd just shrug it off. If the feedback isn't useful, just say "thanks" and move on. :) -
    Bicpen: Well, I too have suffered horendously the same kind of review and my suggestion is this ... take a deep breath, pause and write a scathing retaliation of what exactly has offended you make sure there is no foul language and no personal attack.

    Simply defend your work to the best possible degree and do not revenge attack, though that is satisfying especially when the said reviewer is at fault in their own work, after all thats what defending YOUR work is all about.

    Simply state your disgust in several outburst of bold and intelligent logic, refering to the correct manner that you have adorned your work with and lastly dont forget to tell them not to review your work again and if you feel like it mute them.

    Bye the way it is always good to correct reviewers when needed as some are so arrogant and ignorant to the technicalities of certain forms that they just end up publically humiliating themselves in front of those who really do know what your talking about ... it all adds to the fun.

    ... oh, and the reason for no revenge or swares is that you will get booted of the site unless your prepared to crawl up the cretons anal passage with a drivelling apology ... sucks really doesnt it ... but thats life here at FS, the glorious one stop shop for pompous arrogant self centered nobodies, bit like me when I feel like it.

    ... have a nice day ! -
    Val Crisson: But Bicpen we are not supposed to defend our work, according to site rules though I have in the past. But I feel as you do we should be able to, how else would a reviewer learn to review correctly? And I don 't hesitate to use the mute button. -


Val Crisson: Sometimes I feel like throwing the "pen" in the fire!
    October21: Don't we all! (Damn pen... Keeps coming back!) -
    Val Crisson: Thank you, I'm just so frustrated with site right now. -
    Val Crisson: Some of my best writing is so ignored on this site, and some my least ineresting is liked. -
    Donya Quijote: Oh, I've been pretty much ignored since I joined just over a year ago. Most grateful to those who pay attention and offer some guidance too. -
    Val Crisson: I can't say I've been ignored. I have been fortunate for the most part on this site, but I often feel darker poems are not really looked at in the same light -
    Joannforsberg: Amen, amen, amen, amen. Yet, as soon as you do when the embers of fire die down. You would be placing your fingers in the ashes for another means of writing words down. Once your soul has been captured to write there is no freedom of escape. Blessings, JO -
    Joannforsberg: May not have been clear there. Meant using ashes to write with. For throughout times all writers have found something to write within. You can throw away the pen. Yet, not the desire. -
    Val Crisson: Yes I agree, Jo. Sometimes I wonder if it is a gift or curse. -


Val Crisson: I so wish people would read the contest prompts directions, before writing reviews.
    adewpearl: Wouldn't that just be lovely? It's sad how many people vote for or give praiseful reviews to entries fail to follow basic rules -
    DIS-illusioned: Pfft! What's the use of that...if the accompanying picture is so lovely?
    Bwaha! :)) -
    Val Crisson: I'm glad you both feel this way. I have recieved so many "odd" responses, that were not even remotely spelled right and expressing some random thoughts that had nothing to do with the contest. Okay, I done "whining" -
    Border Reiver: I was once critised for having a ghost in my entry for a ghost story :) -
    Border Reiver: Doh! Clearly it would have been better if the reviewer had focused on my spelling.
    -


Val Crisson: "Christmas In My Mind" is finally out on Amazon. It is a collection of memoirs and poems put together by six authors. I'm one of them, and it is a unique collection of memories.


Val Crisson: I am very disturbed by this site not monitoring the contests it puts out. If this does not improve, I will not be renewing my contract in November. Not that some of you care, but my last complaint is the 3-5-3 air haiku contest, that is running right now. See what I have enter in discussion there, and no I'm not in the contest.
    redrider6612: The site doesn't monitor any of their contests for entry compliance. They depend on the voters to police the writing prompts. The other site contests are judged by a committee, and one hopes they wouldn't select entries that don't comply. -
    Val Crisson: So it's a double standard, is that what you are saying? So the prompt contests are lesser poems, than the others? Well how interesting, but If a prompt calls for a haiku how can it accept a senyru?? I find this very unjustice. -
    redrider6612: The site contests have a cash prize, so they are judged by committee. There are two writing prompts every day, they couldn't possibly be judged by committee.

    When I review a contest entry that doesn't comply with the contest guidelines, I deduct at least one star, sometimes two or three, depending on how severe the rule breaking is. If more members did that, people would have more incentive to comply with the rules. -
    nor84: In short, Val Crisson, don't blame the SITE for things in the voting box. Blame the VOTERS who don't read the rules and the MEMBERS who enter contests without reading the rules. The Site cannot possibly police all of the "member" contests and the "prompts" especially since the SITE doesn't create them, the members do.

    Site contests, as redrider explained, have cash payouts in real money and are NOT voted on by members, but by the Contest Committee. -
    Val Crisson: Oh! I beg to differ the site does create most of the prompts, therefore they should be Noreen responsible for what they put out. -
    Cobalt Blue: I think the site should be sued for not monitoring the contests the way they should. What do you say? Let's get a class action lawsuit together and just sue them. And let's sue for every time a rulebreaker has been awarded a false virtual ribbon. I actually like the rulebreakers though. They are more interesting than the rule followers and enforcers. Woe to those who don't get in line! -
    Val Crisson: Then why bother having specific prompts, CB? Let's just have a complete prompt free for all.
    -
    Earl of Oxford: When voting in prompts, I never read the entry OR the rules, as I think the picture is what counts, or whether the entrant is a friend of mine.

    Signed, 'An Idiot who is too prevelant' -


Val Crisson: Working on self publishing a Christmas/Holiday book with my Maryland writing group. I hope to place it on Fanstory.


Val Crisson: Hey Fanstory Peeps. Sorry, if I'm not responding to messages right now. But I 'm incredibly busy, and buying a house on the other coast!
    DIS-illusioned: What, the French coast?! My dear Val, the cheese there really isn't all it's cut out to be--'wee wee'.
    Best of luck in your real estate endeavors. :) -
    Val Crisson: West Coast as in San Diedo, though I sense a pun here -
    pattipac: Hi Val, congrats. on winning nature Haiku. Glad you didn't give up writing poetry. -


Val Crisson: I'm considering giving up poetry, and focusing on prose.
    William Walz: Good choice. Poetry is the unwanted stepchild of real writing. -
    DIS-illusioned: *Oh, thank you Jesus!* ... No, Val, please don't do that--we love your poetry!
    Do what's best for your literary soul, dearie. :) -
    Donya Quijote: Why can't you continue with both? What's up or, um, down? -
    Val Crisson: My poetry no longer sounds ...passionate And I do both, but one is the master, if ya know what I mean! -
    Donya Quijote: Take a break and go back. I can understand your disillusionment with haiku. I keep trying and keep failing and the funny thing is so few are willing to tell me or guide me so that I may finally achieve one. They seem so easy, but.. I keep trying anyway, can't stop. So just take a break, try something new and go back and see if the passion doesn't come back too. -
    William Walz: Why not move on to limericks? Forget about writing poetry. The only real writing is good old prose. -
    Lady & Louis: Shakespeare might differ from you there, Bill ... ;) -
    William Walz: I'm listening. The bard ain't sayin' a word. -
    Lady & Louis: Well of course he's not talking to you after what you said! :P -
    William Walz: Anyone named William must be an extraordinary human being. -
    Lady & Louis: But of course. Except Bill Posters, of course. Wonder if he's been prosecuted yet? -
    Val Crisson: How did this turn into limericks! None the less. I appreciate the discussion -
    another jim: ROTFLMFAO!

    Bill, you are the consummate cynic! (And damned persistent, I might add...)

    Thanks for the morning guffaw, you rabble-rousing SOB! -
    William Walz: Jim, you know you loathe poetry as much as I do. Fess up! -
    William Walz: Whoops. I checked out your portfolio, Jim. I retract my comment. -


Val Crisson: I'm officially giving up haiku in any shape or form!
    Donya Quijote: I say hai-phooey too. So simple, yet still impossible... -
    redrider6612: The site has a few haiku classes you might find enlightening. -
    Cobalt Blue: Try writing a wildly modifed one. Use as many syllables and lines as you like. -


Val Crisson: Looks like one of my favorite Fanstory authors is gone. I will miss her humor and writing very much.
    Val Crisson: Do we speak of the same person? Crakerberries? -


Val Crisson: BUSY! With no time to write, and missing it.


Val Crisson: Loving the number six today!


Val Crisson: I wasn't quite sure this site was ready hippy poetry, but once again I was proven wrong. Thank you all from the bottom of my "old hippy heart"
    squid152: If we were not ready for hippie poetry, then peace would not exist. Oh! peace still does not exist. I understand now. I will fight with extreem violence to make sure that it does!!! LOL!!! Just having fun at the expense of your time.-squid -


Val Crisson: FINALLY
    tinams: Well done Val. It was a very powerful entry and deserved winner :) -
    Val Crisson: Tina, thank you. You created a great contest, that was so specific you couldn't mess up. -
    squid152: I have posted so far what we have of the world in my port. Please visit. -


Val Crisson: Drama,drama, drama
    Val Crisson: I get the tora, tora, tora but marsha marsha marsha? -
    dbmccarter: As Goober Pyle like to think he was imitating Cary Grant "Judy, Judy, Judy" Rest In Peace, Goober. -
    Val Crisson: As in the movie Moonstruck (the movie), "I'm so confused"! -


Val Crisson: I think today might be the 50th time have come in second in a prompt contest! Ugh!!
    Val Crisson: Do you have a real name? Thanks for the advice - the pity pary is over! -
    Crackerberries: I do ... I don't share it. Sorry...you can call me CB -


Val Crisson: I am so thankful, to all that voted for my poem "Reality"! I am honored, because there were so many great entries.


Val Crisson: the prompts have been really boring the last few days??????
    LateBloomer: I could liven up the prompts but I'm not sure that it would be appreciated - lol. Smiles, Bloomer -
    justjo66: Congrats on your recent tie for first place. I was one of the ones that voted for you. Who knew? -
    justjo66: Oops, well, shut my mouth. Guess, I need to learn to read. Shoot, I hate making stupid mistakes. Well, you SHOULD have taken 1st. Next time.... -
    kiwigirl2821: Well at least you can WRITE Haikus? sheez mine suck super big time laughing! xoxo -
    justjo66: Val, I have almost rewritten my poem "Words" and still it's not going like I think it should...I would appreciate any help or comments. Please read again. Thanks -
    Val Crisson: Send it to me via private messages,and I will take a look at it. Your gift is your writing comes from the heart, and poetry can be very structured or free verse.
    -


Val Crisson: My poem "Ruined Lives" has been recognized!!
Thank you to many for helping my endevour (sp). Hugs


Val Crisson: Whoo-Yeah-Oh Boy!!!! I just won my first poetry contest. I cannot believe i am this excited. Hugs to the world
    richard7: A big congratulations to you Val for your win, keep on keeping on! -
    another jim: Like so many things in life, the first one's always the best... Congrats! -
    juliaSjames:
    Terrific job. Congratulations. peace and blessings, jj -


Val Crisson: I have just posted a memoir about my experience in the 60's of interviewing for United Airlines.