These Are My JOTtings...

Constant Comma is the Toast

That Constant Comma is the toast
to Winnie, our grande dame,
We offer this with Honor most
to lift her cherished name.



The commas through each weekly class
have marched with metered step.
They dare us write our best to pass.
They urge us work with pep!

The rules so grueling won't relent.
At times we weep and wail
We wonder how to just repent
to keep from weekly fail.

But then we start the exercise,
assignment follows quick.
Yet, through a time or two of tries
I'm sure each rule we lick.

The sternest lady in taut ship
doth shake a measured rod,
Assuring that we never slip
to grade us and applaud!

How can I write her from no on?
Can words be in the teens?
Can strength be strong and fear be gone?
Can Hope now fill the scenes?

To keep it short, I say, "Hello!
"How do you this fine day?
"My words are few. I hope you know.
"No commas on display!"

Yet, that's not good I solemn trow
for aught but hand-paint waifs.
The commas I must daily know
for writers naught play safes. ;)

Good grief! I'm just like Charlie Brown!
His kites all sailed to trees!
My commas are all stuck in ground
with rules up past my knees!

Mayhaps, I'd better lend a line
to help his kites to soar
And kites make thoughts of rules to shine
as hopeful and no chore.

The sternest lady in taut ship
might shake quite firm a measured rod,
But from the tenderest loving lip
a joy-filled tear upon the sod.

by Jay O'Toole
on February 21st, 2017

I'm a member of the Rising Stars Program for 2016-2017