Sonnet: Upstream Poem by Brian Mayo

I read this the minute you posted it....but have waited to comment. This is the first sonnet of yours I have read. I think this might be my favorite. Its serious, well-written, conforms to the 'rules, ' but gives a fresh face to the sonnet as well with the choice of subject....not the idea of religion and faith and self-respect, but of salmon. To me, this gives the poem an American flair, which I like. You do a nice job of carrying the imagery through to the end through the elegant word choice and the volta: 'for others destiny is less defined.' You carry through to the end the explanation of your theme with beautifully appointed lines and meter. The poem ends on a bit of a sad note....that some things are not forgiveable.... I really loves this poem, Brian. Well done on all counts. Its a write that can stick in the mind and make one think about the meaning of life, of religion, of faith, of consequences and choices, and fish (he he) . It doesn't matter the form, though you took on that challenge well.

A profound analytical write. Forgiveness of oneself may be desperately desired although perhaps unachievable when the conscience holds to ransom.10

Very poignant and relatable. Everything starts and ends with the self. Without self love, respect, confidence and forgiveness; one is useless to everyone