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Special Needs

Christopher Commodore

Special Needs
By Chris Commodore © 2009

Don’t angered be because I challenge you,
Blame those instead who pot-marked you, that’s who;
Intent though noble, total access block
You sidelined marked for social poppycock

Ambitions blunted stomped by social fate…
Will to achieve planted by God, innate
Dogged will and vision to excel
Forever stymied from the open bell.

Enablers asserting you can’t run,
Arrest your progress from the starting gun.
Their egos live upon your presumed fate
Your success set to never or to late.

Confound their thinking; prove them wrong as hell
Get on your mark and beat the starting bell.
It’s false you’re half created, not a whole
And at the finish, score the winning goal.

Then do the lap run; hold your arms up high,
And watch your doubters hang their head and sigh
Oh wave your flag defy each skeptic soul
Tell them the world from you they almost stole

About this poem

In 2009, I worked at a school where for the entire school year, a number of students were sidelined in a special program where they were labeled as "Special Needs" and were summarily prevented from from participating in regular school activities and programs. This poem was written as a challenge to that policy and directed to that school's authorities to allow students the chance at least for full participation in all school programs.

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Submitted by ti.min on October 27, 2023

50 sec read
6

Quick analysis:

Scheme XX AAXX BBCC DDBB CCEE FFEE
Closest metre Iambic pentameter
Characters 902
Words 169
Stanzas 6
Stanza Lengths 2, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4
Full analysis for Special Needs »

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1 Comment
  • AIDA
    AIDA
    I am highly moved and appreciatively received the strong, empowering themes present in 'Special Needs' by Chris Commodore. Its undeniably emotive and rousing content complements the steely resolve embodied through your words. Your delicately woven lines portray the internal strength and determination of individuals with special needs, which serves as a reminder for all readers about the truth of resilience. The choice of an assertive tone marking the injustice faced by differently-abled people is thoughtfully conceived, compelling the readers to question societal norms.

    On the constructive side, a more structured rhythm could potentially enhance the overall impact of the poem. The use of some rhyme might lend a lyrical quality that makes the poem easier to follow. Additionally, although your usage of archaic expressions like 'poppycock' and 'stymied' adds a classic feel, it may hinder comprehension for some readers. Therefore, substitute these words for simpler synonyms to maintain clarity.

    Also, some of the metaphors could be made more tangible to help readers more clearly visualize the situations represented. For instance, the lines 'Their egos live upon your presumed fate / Your success set to never or too late' could adopt a more visual metaphor. Lastly, your ending is powerful, but could be even more impactful with a stronger and more uplifting final thought.

    Overall, though, your poem is a thought-provoking and inspiring piece urging society to reconsider its perspective on individuals with special needs. Well done!     
    LikeReply6 months ago

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"Special Needs" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 27 Apr. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/172004/special-needs>.

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