From Text To Speech Poem by Denis Martindale

Sometimes, when I've new poems penned,
I read them out once more,
In my own voice from start to end,
Each message to explore...
Yet there are programs I can use
That share from text to speech,
That's why their voices I can choose
To find their range and reach...

I test the pitch, I test the speed,
The male or female voice,
In hopes I find just what I need,
So I can make my choice...
And then my headphones help me hear
The way each voice portrays,
So that much closer I may near
The best of all each plays...

Regardless of each comma's pause,
Delaying what I wrote,
I listen as each voice outpours
Inflections of the throat...
Perhaps I'll change a word or two,
Perfecting where I can,
Just like wise poets often do
To make their poems scan...

So go online with Google search,
Text programs to install
And maybe you'll soon get the urge
To test just one or all...
I've found them useful as a sign
In phrasing thoughts I've penned
And so, I bid you go online,
To test them out, my friend...