Last week a family member misinterpreted a poem I’d written. I have read poems that left me feeling frightened, scared for the writer. Sometimes I struggle to understand a poem’s meaning. I’m sure at times I misinterpret. It’s nice we can email here.


The Dance

Should I add a disclaimer
to poems that I pen
assuring the reader
it’s not aimed at them?

Would a statement to clarify
ease your dismay,
that no hidden meaning
was written today?

Just a few lines of writing
to help me to heal
with memories rising,
the issues too real.

A moment of sadness,
a light in the dark,
a vision with clarity,
a walk through a park…

all subjects for writers,
no need to lay blame
when one lands on a poem
that calls out your name.

Should the dance of the
reader and writer hold sway,
to the writer’s intention
to give thoughts away?

I find myself asking
just what do they mean,
what are they getting at,
in these verses I’ve seen.

So the drama lives on
in the poems we create,
no need to push meaning,
let it bear its own weight.



Poetry by Melinda K Zarate The PoetBay support member heart!
Read 12 times
Written on 2026-05-25 at 18:12

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Alan J Ripley The PoetBay support member heart!
High Melinda.
I've often pondered on this,
Writing poetry that may be misconstrued.
Luckily I've only had one troll.
My philosophy has been to publish my scribbles,
Know matter what. As for people reading my poetry,
I'm happy that they do. As for your own poetry,
It's unique because it's written by you. Don't forget that,
And believe me when I say, you belong with the elite,
Here on poetbay.
Kind regards Alan
2026-05-25


ken d williams The PoetBay support member heart!
During my membership of poetbay. Readers of some my. Found their own understanding. Now who am I to tell any defiant? I smile, thank them for reading my work,:)
Kenny D. :)
2026-05-25


Sameen The PoetBay support member heart!
First of all, what a well written Poem.

Second of all, no, our job is to write. Once the work is written, it is up to the reader to interpret how they wish.
2026-05-25