The below is a computer generated response from Neo, Neopoet's computer artificial intelligence:

The poem "On Pebbled Shore" paints a picture of a serene scene, with a group of people gathered around a fire on a beach, enjoying toasted s'mores and sharing stories. However, as the poem progresses, it takes a dark turn, as the stories being told are of war and its casualties. The contrast between the peaceful setting and the horrific tales being recounted creates a jarring effect that emphasizes the brutality of war.

The use of rhyme throughout the poem gives it a sing-song quality that is fitting for a story being told around a fire. The repetition of the word "flowing" in the second stanza creates a sense of continuity, as the stories being told are all interconnected. The final two lines of the poem are particularly powerful, as they suggest that the tales being shared on this beach will shape the future.

One possible line edit could be to change "Of soldiers taken" to "Of lives taken," which would broaden the focus beyond just soldiers and acknowledge the civilian casualties of war. Overall, "On Pebbled Shore" is an evocative poem that uses vivid imagery and rhyme to convey the lasting impact of war.

Please send feedback about Neo (our computer generated critique system) to https://www.neopoet.com/contact

brings to mind a dozen or so places alongside of lakes in
my region. I have camped and had fishing expeditons on them.
I see this as some good friends fishing and relaxing on a stony shore
when the talk comes 'round to important pieces of the companions lives.

The language use is good, simple and clear.
A rhythm is established with a sing-song pattern that helps the flow
keep moving. Themewise, I can see how it would be a topic born of
a need to talk about such a distinctive part of their lives, one that
isn't normally brought up in daily conversation. The beginning of the poem
sets the picture for a comfortable scenario, and makes one think that the
group is one of like-minded people.

It progresses with tales of war and the experiences
that have shaped their lives after war. The internal logic is good and shows that they
have been changed by the experience of having been in battle and that it was not a good part
of their lives. The closing stanza comes too fast and begs for some clarification on
why the group has found each other and the stories are important.

Maybe another stanza to suggest that they are part of a group built for the express purpose of
carrying on work as rehabilitation of mental health? The ending is a caution
that these tales need to be told to future generations, to maybe forestall the next war.

All in all, a good solid piece, that has no obvious flaws in structure or language.
Good job! ~ Geezer.
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