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Review #4716434
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by A Guest Visitor
Review of The Red Canoe  
In affiliation with The WDC Angel Army  
Rated: NPL | (4.5)
Access:  Public | Hide Review (?)
Dear Louise Wiggins is Elizabeth ,

"The Red Canoe" is a poignant poem that explores the theme of loss and the passage of time. The style and imagery employed by the poet effectively convey a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. Throughout the poem, the reader is immersed in the speaker's journey along the river, which serves as a metaphor for the passage of time and the inevitability of change.

The poem's use of vivid imagery is particularly noteworthy. The description of the canoe as "made for lakes, not rivers" with its "broad beam and narrow keel" vividly illustrates the unsuitability of the canoe for the river, mirroring the incompatibility of the past with the present. The mention of the red color that has weathered over time adds a layer of symbolism, as it signifies the fading of vibrant memories into the past.

The line "How long has it been?" encapsulates the theme of time passing and invites readers to reflect on the transience of life. The reference to the speaker's physical attributes, "You had thick curly hair—I was strong and limber," further emphasizes the temporal aspect of the poem, highlighting the changes that have occurred over the years.

The image of the canoe entangled in a tree, with a limb growing through a hole in the bow, is a powerful symbol of how the past can become intertwined with the present, albeit in unexpected ways. The tree, which now "owns" the canoe, metaphorically suggests that nature and time claim all things eventually.

Suggestions for improvement:
1. The poem could benefit from a more structured rhyme scheme or meter, which would enhance musicality and make it more engaging for the ear.
2. Expanding on the emotions and memories associated with the lost canoe could provide a deeper connection to the theme of loss.
3. Consider incorporating more poetic devices such as metaphors or similes to enrich the imagery and symbolism in the poem.
4. The introduction of a consistent narrative or a clearer progression of events could help guide the reader through the speaker's journey and emotional reflections.

In conclusion, "The Red Canoe" effectively conveys the theme of loss through vivid imagery and a reflective tone. It captures the bittersweet essence of revisiting the past and the inexorable passage of time. To further enhance the poem, the poet might explore more structured elements and delve deeper into the emotional resonance of the lost canoe.

Sincerely,

Brian
WDC Angel Army Reviewer
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