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Dear Stranger (Waiting in Line Contest)

“Have a good day!” I smiled
as we ended our conversation.

I’d never met her before today,
but there's something
about talking to a stranger
that fills my day with wonderment.

It’s always easy
to talk to a familiar.
but to a stranger…
There’s so much to learn.
I have so many questions
and so little time.

For a split second,
the sonder is present.

What have you done with your life?
What was your childhood like?
Describe your mother in 3 words.
Where do you work?
Do you drink coffee?
I would love to meet for coffee
and listen to stories about your life…

Instead, I leave the grocery line
in wonder.

Goodbye, Dear Stranger.
I didn’t even catch your name.

Style / type: 
Free verse
Review Request (Intensity): 
I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back
Review Request (Direction): 
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Editing stage: 
Content level: 
Not Explicit Content
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Comments

The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet's computer artificial intelligence:

The poem "Dear Stranger" explores the fascination and curiosity that arises from conversations with strangers. The speaker expresses a desire to learn about the stranger's life and experiences, but is ultimately left with unanswered questions and a sense of longing.

The poem effectively captures the fleeting nature of these encounters and the missed opportunities for deeper connection. The use of the word "sonder" adds an interesting layer of depth, conveying the realization that every stranger has a complex and unique life story.

One suggestion for improvement would be to further develop the imagery and sensory details in the poem. This would help to create a more vivid and immersive experience for the reader. Additionally, consider experimenting with the structure and form of the poem to enhance its impact. This could involve playing with line breaks, stanza breaks, or even incorporating different poetic devices such as repetition or enjambment.

Overall, "Dear Stranger" is a thought-provoking poem that effectively conveys the speaker's yearning for connection with others. With some further

Please send feedback about Neo (our computer generated critique system) to https://www.neopoet.com/contact

I enjoyed this, it made me think of how my wife will talk to anyone. Even when we visited my daughter, near London, where people hardly ever chat, on the bus or tube she would strike up conversations and the people always responded most friendly. The last time it was an elderly. very dapper gent, who as it turned out, had been a member of the notorious Kray gang.
Anyway I'll be putting my offering on tomorrow, just needs polishing up. Alex.

What an experience! I also chat with random people throughout the day. Especially in new places that I visit.

I look forward to reading your submission as well!

author comment

a typo here:
For a split second,
the sonder is present

You poem shows that you are open to others and not self-centered! This is such a happy poem, I had to read it thrice! I enjoyed it greatly!

*hugs, Cat

*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.

So much, Candlewitch! I'm so happy you enjoyed it!

Also, did I spell something wrong or was it the punctuation? I'm sorry, I didn't catch a typo even after you pointed it out... maybe I'm just sleepy

author comment

that the word (sonder should be wonder?)

*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.

No, sonder is the word I meant to use. It's not a common word but it means... "Sonder — noun. the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own."

author comment

I learned something new today!

*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.

I appreciate you looking out for typos and how graciously you correct them. I always appreciate corrective feedback!

author comment
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