I read this about ten minutes ago and am still pondering your words... I liked your easy flow and simple rhyme, it works well to get your message across. A message not always heard.

I was greatly intrigued by the depth and questioning of mankind in this piece... the idea of peace being a theory; it reminded me that some view peace as being an abstract idea. Personally, I believe peace can occur. But how we can define peace?

I also liked your emphasis on dreamers of the world, even hinting at those who beg and asking the reader if a utopia is what we want. Who would work and contribute then? That lead me into thinking of perfection. I don't think peace means reaching complete perfection (as I don't believe that's possible) but something worth working toward. However, others can argue if it can't be obtained why try to go in that direction? Is it a waste? I think peace does not mean we all live on the same level with the same standards... or that there is absence of conflict. As you wrote near the last stanzas, history has shown conflict is always present, no matter what culture. Conflict always exist within and through our actions, however it's the way we react and deal with them that makes the difference. If we respond in a mature, understanding way, finding the root of the issue, instead of in an abrupt, possibly violent way.

I liked how you introduced peace as a "way of life" versus your own view that it is not a way of life, that it doesn't have a soul. That is a very interesting idea, tying the soul in. Like it is a theory developed by humans that was created to appease others. I don't know why but it made me also think of religion and how some see it as myths, as unable to proved and therefore can't truly exist. We're studying certain philosophers in school so maybe that's why.

Good reflection (in a form that still had great rhythm) and really prompted thought. Nominated.

Congrats on the win.

much deserved and one in the eye for those that have down voted this without giving you any suggestions as to why.

Mark,

I admire and adore your poetry... this poem was very powerful!! Well deserved win ~

A well deserved win. Congrats.

A very well thought out poem weaved with facts of life. Congrats on the win.

Sorry this is late but congratulations on your win, very well-deserved in my opinion!

Judging comments

It is the last stanza that caught my eye, it is almost a poem on its own or an epitaph that describes human nature and our daily struggles with peace as a planet. Somebody somewhere at any time is provoking violence or war. Whether it be physical or emotionally, there is always somebody who cannot look at a peaceful option.
I love how this whole poem has a real polished feel to it. (I will overlook the missing 'l' from labelled) it is not a biggy IMO.
The flow of this is gorgeous and has a real lyrical feel. The first stanza takes you by the hand and leads you beautifully through each stanza that follows. Every stanza hammers home the point you want to make and the constant use of the word 'peace' really drives home this.
Best of all your rhyming comes across as very natural. Not many rhyming poems get the plaudits they deserve. This feels like a proper poem and I am pleased that I can give it 10 points on my watch. Awesomeness personified.

Mark has crafted an inspirational delight with this wonderful Rhyme poem about Peace! I was touched, moved, and inspired with the message he expressed within this poem.
I adore a powerful rhyme poem that can move me to tears!
The flow was not choppy or blunt; It just moved within a rhythm that the reader can fall to the floor in awe with.

"Peace is only an opinion,
A theory, nothing more.
It can't be found in ages past,
Or dreams that came before."

I highlighted this passage from the poem to just express the wonderful display of word usage within this poem.. the message speaks HIGH volumes of powerful expressions and emotions.
Truly an elegant poem here by Mark Spencer