This poem provides a powerful and evocative look into the loneliness and emptiness of life. The imagery of the pen as a lamentation of loneliness and the streams of scribbled stress providing a waterfall of pent up rage are especially well-captured. The language use throughout is effective, with the words "pent up rage" and "bitter hemlock drink" standing out for their descriptive power.

The rhythm of the poem is strong and steady, with the rhymes and patterns used throughout creating a sense of flow. The pacing of the poem is also well-done, with the lines building up to the titular phrase "poet on the brink". The theme of loneliness is one that will likely resonate with many readers, and the ending of the poem provides a heartfelt conclusion.

The title, "Poet on the Brink," is a great choice, as it effectively captures the theme of the poem and is an interesting choice of words. As a suggested line edit, perhaps changing the line "before my Muse's death" to "before my Muse's breath" would provide a more impactful ending. Overall, this is a strong and emotive poem.

it drew me in.
As I read the verse, it spoke to me of lonely
days/nights [nights always seem lonelier for some reason]
when the words and ideas just won't come. Perhaps your muse
has taken a little hiatus or 'walk-about' as they say in Aussieland.

My muse often disappears for days even a week or so at times.
Then she returns with wonderful stories from far-off lands and subjects
that cover ordinary events in a way that I've never seen them before!
She may be waiting right outside your window with a scene, you have laid eyes on
many times, before, but with a twist and new perspective. Maybe she is disappointed in you,
that you don't see what a wonderful thing she has brought you. [Like the cat that brings
the mouse she worked so hard to get, and you just scoop it up and put it in the trash].

The wordage is excellent! You have spewed the scene with the poison of your frustration
and it works! I would not be so quick to tell of your muse's demise, maybe she
has sent you a message. Look around. Your language use is very good, and the dreariness
of life without your muse runs off the page like ink diluted with poison. The rhyme is very good
and the pace cantors along like a horse mile after mile.

Nice job! ~ Geezer.
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