What I tell myself when I think I'm writing too much crappy poetry

It's ok
to be copious.
I remind myself that
I've held back,
been dry
and uninspired
for a long time.

it's only right
that I should gush
just to get it all out.

It's ok
to be just
politely ignored.
this isn't about them.
this is about
the sheer joy
of words written
when they need to be said.

It's ok
to suck for much of it.
practice
makes
perfect.

It's ok
not to know
what's good
and what's rotten
this isn't about
product
this is about
process

Once the river stops
and the flood plain
dries
and the alluvium
remains
Then watch for
the first shoots
from the silt

mud baths are very soothing.
E. Howe Oct 23, 2003