I have a sickness; reader’s block
My concentration’s really shot
I’ve tried and tried and tried again
but nothing stays inside my brain
I’m all behind on reading blogs
My head is full of clouds and fog
My inbox bursts with ninety posts
I look as though I’ve seen a ghost
I’d like to read them one by one
I cannot even get that done
I’m sitting here, fed up and cross
My reading skills today are dross
I want to write; I need to read
but words just disappear with speed
Into the ether and the mist
D’you understand me; get my gist?
I really must apologise
I hope that you can sympathise
Standing in the dock when called
I have to plead; I’m guilty M’lord.
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Author: Ellie Thompson
Writing my memoirs, musings, a little fiction and a lot of poetry as a way of exploring and making the most of my life ...
... Having had a break from writing my blog for more than three years, I decided to return to write my memoirs, some day-to-day observations, views and feelings. My passion is non-fiction poetry. I have a disability and use an electric powerchair called Alfie and let nothing get in the way of living life to the full.
I believe that you can never do a kindness too soon and should give credit where credit is due. A smile or a kind word could make the difference between a good or bad day for a person - we never know what's going on for another soul. Those little things, perhaps, practised daily like a mantra, could mean so much to someone else.
Thank you for visiting my blog and reading a little more about me. Please, make yourself at home here. You are very welcome. Ellie x 😊
View all posts by Ellie Thompson
Essentially Ellie 
I know the feeling!
I’m sorry you’re having the same issues. It’s so frustrating, isn’t it? X
Wow Ellie, what an enticing poem. I really fathom the way you are guilty. Yes you are guilty in terms of being stuck writing and you need to be patient.
We are all guilty at some point. I can see the meaning of this poem🔥🔥🙌
Thanks so much, Mthobisi. I need to concentrate on reading rather than writing all the time. It’s not fair to my readers if I don’t reciprocate their kindness in reading my posts. I am doing my best. I certainly feel guilty for not keeping up with my reading of other people’s blogs. I’m glad you could see the meaning in my words, though.
I can identify with this poem all too well. Well done, Ellie. And, may the “fog” lift sooner than later!
Thanks, Bruce. My brain is so often in writing gear, and I need to find a way to switch it off temporarily and do some blog reading instead. My concentration when reading is poor, but every now and then, I can take everything in. I must have about thirty tabs open on my laptop; each one with a seperate blog to read; plus what’s in my inbox! I think I need to stay up all night to catch up! Thank you for identifying with my poem, even though I don’t wish poor concentration on anyone else. Let’s hope the fog does lift soon, as you say.
As I’ve said before, your writer’s block clearly doesn’t include poetry. Another good one!
Thanks very much, Mick. It’s the ‘reader’s block’ I’ve got now. I’ve really got to switch my writer’s head off for a while to allow me to catch up on reading my followed blogs (and that’s a lot!)
So many of these blocks – I’ve currently got painter’s block. What’s a boy to do?
Oh, dear. I guess painter’s block must be as frustrating as writer’s block. I’ve definitely got reader’s block at the moment. I’ve dedicated tomorrow to catching up with all my blog reading, although, of course, as fast as I read them, then the next ones drop into my inbox at quite a pace. I hope you get your painting mojo back very soon.
Thanks, Ellie.
😦
Thanks, Greg. I’m okay – there are just not enough hours in the day.
I know the feeling. Misty reading is hard in a fog when cloudy days make a foggy mind, and the reign of rain though amazing does not make the wilted writings of a pen blossom like flowery language that someone would find cute like a shy sly smile, but alas not every flower poem can survive on just a smile that has no power nor warmth like the sun or the couple kissing in the park as if the words were already said and said well, yet that other “Jack and Jill (who) went up the hill to fetch a pail of water” wanders — is it for Mother Goose that it was Jill who never got to cook a goose for dinner.
You do well finding rhymes every time. Maybe on to an observation of some kind that would not necessarily need to rhyme. Or a dream about the day you read ten thousand books in a second with the super powers an angel gave you so you could save a soul with your words.
The jury is still out, and there is one juror who doesn’t want to vote guilty. There’s still time to make a motion to dismiss the case or something…. I don’t know — that doesn’t rhyme…
Here: take this — I give you magic
Thank you for your interesting and thoughtful comment, Doug. I appreciate your replying to me in such depth. Sorry that you can identify with the feeling, too. It’s not so much the writing I’ve been struggling with lately, but it’s keeping up with reading my blogging friends’ posts, which I’m really keen to read. It’s a combination of insufficient time and lack of concentration (mostly the latter). I am fortunate to have a fair number of people who support my blog and my writing, and I really want to reciprocate that kindness by supporting them in their writing, too.
I find writing rhyming poetry comes naturally to me, less so prose. However, I’m willing to give it a try at some point. I like your idea of writing about dreaming that I was able to read numerous blogs with superpowers.
I’m glad there is at least one juror who doesn’t want to deliver a verdict of guilty. That’s reassuring. Thank you for the gift of magic, too.
You’re not alone, Ellie. It’s hard to get all the reading done while also following our love of writing. Your poem is great, by the way! I hope you can fine the time and concentration to read a little here and a little there. That’s what I have to do. We just have to realize we can’t do it all and then do what we can, and try to be satisfied with that.
Thanks, Patty. It’s good to know I’m not alone with this. Thanks, too, for liking my poem. I find writing so much easier than reading. I do often read other blogs, but then I can’t always think of something appropriate to add as a comment. I’m the same with books; I love reading them; I just don’t allow enough time away from writing, which is my passion. I’m making a pact with myself for tomorrow as I’m free for some of the day – no writing but lots of reading. I will be happy if I can get half of my outstanding blogs read tomorrow X 🌹
I took an online course that taught free writing. It changed my writing life. The basics are as follows: set a timer for ten minutes. Write whatever comes out of your head. Do not stop. Do not stop typing or writing until the timer stops. Even if all you write is blah, blah, blah. The idea is to not self edit. Sometimes, it is all nonsense, and sometimes, it is gold. It is only for you. No one needs to see it.
I found it opened up my creativity and writing flow. I highly recommend it. Xx
Thank you for the tips about your online course. I’m so glad you found it helpful. I will definitely give that a go, starting tomorrow morning before my head gets so full of other things I need to do. I was writing a journal every day, but I seemed to have lapsed with that lately. I can imagine mine will be all nonsense, but if, as you said, something decent comes out of it, then that’s a bonus. All I need now is to find some tips that’ll help me concentrate on reading. It’s not only other blogs; it’s also books. I’m reading an excellent book at the moment, but I’m hopeless at concentrating on it at home; I usually go down to the library, where I find I’m less distracted by other daily things. Thanks again, Allie. Hugs Xxx 🤗🌷💛
Hi Ellie. I would like to share something my daughter said about creativity. “There are many ways to be creative. If you have writer’s block, switch to something creative in a different way.” I found that a paint-by-number or an adult coloring book works really well. They activate the same part of the brain as writing.
Hi. That’s really interesting. I used to do adult colouring, but I haven’t done it for a couple of years. I’ll definitely give that a try. I’m going into town tomorrow, and we have an art and crafts shop, so I can pop in there to get one. I’ll definitely give that a try. I used to find it very relaxing. Thank you for all your valuable tips. Thanks to your daughter for hers, too. Xx 🌷💕
That sounds really interesting, Allie. I might give it a go xx
I have the opposite problem. News and blogs are all I can read because I can make the text on my computer screen large and my double vision becomes less of an issue. Not sure what your block is, but I think readership is down since spring hit (in our hemisphere). I liked your poem. Maybe you read too many blogs. They can’t all be that good 🙂
Thanks, Jeff. Glad you liked it – it was just a ditty, really. I’m glad you’ve found a way that you can read more clearly, although I appreciate that doesn’t work with books, which must be frustrating. I struggle with reading books, too. My concentration at home is rubbish – I get far too easily distracted. I usually go down to the library to read.
I’m not sure how many blogs I read, but there are a lot. I’ve currently got about 35 emails of notifications of blogs to read at the moment. I think I might be addicted … or mad, not sure which 😉!
Yes, I can related. Thanks for putting words to my similar concerns. Hang in there Ellie!
Sorry, you’re struggling with the same issues, Brian. Thank you for your empathy. It’s frustrating not to have the concentration and time to read others’ blogs as much as I’d like to. I don’t have a problem with writing, just reading. I’m the same with books. I rarely have enough time despite wanting to read the story. I have to go down to the library in town to read. There are fewer distractions there than there are at home.
This week, my grandchildren are staying from Thursday afternoon until Saturday morning—very little chance of writing or reading with a ten and 8-year-old to look after and keep occupied. I love seeing them so much, but I’m also aware that I will get even more behind than I am already.
You’re doing your best and that’s all anyone can ask of you, Ellie 🙂 I hope your ‘brain fog’ clears really soon and I’m so happy that you’re still able to write your amazing poetry even if you’ve hit a ‘wall’ in writing about other things. Sending you lots of love xxxx
Thank you very much, Janet. I am doing my best, but my best doesn’t feel good enough if I can’t reciprocate other bloggers’ kindness in supporting me with my blog. I don’t find writing a problem, really. It’s more about having poor concentration and not enough time to keep up with reading everyone’s blogs. I’m so behind now. I do follow and read a large number of people’s blogs, but sometimes, I just can’t keep up with them all. I’m sorry I’ve got behind on reading your latest posts, too. I will, and want to catch up as I really like to read about your life and often wonder how things are going for you now. I know I’m at least behind on two of your recent posts, and can only apologise, but promise I will catch up at some point. Very much love to you, too, my dear friend. Xxxx 💖💐💝. P.S. Thank you for appreciating my writing and poetry, too. Xxxx
Noooooo. Don’t apologise, Ellie. You’ve not done anything wrong. I don’t expect you – or anyone – to respond to every post, it’s time consuming and can feel overwhelming; especially if you follow a lot of blogs. I can’t speak for everyone, but I don’t mind you not reading or commenting on my blog so you can do other things. I’m so glad you’re ok and that you can still write. Sending you big hugs 🫂 xoxo
Thanks for being so understanding and generous, Janet. I can keep up for a while, but it only takes a couple of things to get in the way, and I end up way behind with everything. This week, I have my two grandchildren to stay for sleepovers from Thursday until Saturday. I can’t wait to see them, but it will also mean that there’s no chance of me catching up with reading for the whole of that time. However, at the moment, my wheelchair’s batteries have failed, and I’m meant to have gone out to get food for the children and things for them to do while they’re here. I’m waiting for the repair people to ring me back with, hopefully, a solution. Keep your fingers crossed for me. Hugs Xxxx 💖🥰💝
Praying Alfie is back to full power and that you’ll be zooming around with a lovely smile on your face before you know it.
I hope you and the little ones will have the best sleepover! I love bring amongst children, they make the mundane sooo magical xx
Thanks, Janet. I’m still waiting to hear from the repair people. If they can’t get out to me by tomorrow, I won’t be able to have the children to stay. They will be so upset, as will I. Fingers and toes crossed. Xxxx 💖
Blocked. But you are writing … about not being able to write. This writing enough not writing
Sorry pressed the wrong button…. Will start again. Blocked… but you are writing … about not being able to write. This writing about not writing is writing. Therefore the blocked is unlocked…. keep going, keep flowing.
Thanks, Geoff. I’m not really having a problem with writing; it’s more about needing more concentration and time to read other bloggers’ posts that I’m worried about. I feel bad for not reciprocating my readers’ kindness in supporting me in my writing. Thank you for your kind encouragement, though. I appreciate your support 😊.
Certainly not a crime Ellie, take your time, everything fine!
I have one word: acquitted! It really is okay not to write for few days, and not to read or comment on other blogs too. Honestly, I think sometimes just giving ourselves permission to take a break is exactly what it takes to rekindle our interest in blogging. But however this plays out, please know whatever you do is absolutely okay with your blogging friends. And I am one of those friends. PS: Loved the poem!
Thank you for your kind and understanding words, Ann. I really appreciate your comment. I don’t have a problem with the writing at all; in fact, I could probably write all day every day, but my poor concentration and lacking spare time make it difficult to keep up with all the blogs I like to read. I really feel I want to reciprocate the kindness other bloggers show me in supporting me with my blog. Thank you for acquitting me of my ‘crime.’ I’m so glad you liked my poem – short and sweet, really. Thanks so much for your support. X 💖
I love your poetry, Ellie.
Hats off to you👏😊
Thank you so much, Vidah. That means a lot to me and I so appreciate you taking the time to read my posts and for leaving lovely comments for me. I hope you are well today Xx 💐💕.
Absolutely!
Wishing you smiles😊❤
We’ll get behind Ellie – don’t worry too much about it. The main thing is you stick around and do your writing
Thank you, Kate, for understanding so well. My concentration for writing is so much more powerful than my ability to read lots. I will definitely continue to write, though. I just appreciate my readers, who are so generous in giving me feedback and taking the time to read my blog. I get cross with myself when I can’t keep up with all the blogs I like to follow. If people are kind enough to support me in my writing, I want then to reciprocate their kindness. It’s just that I’ve got more than a bit behind, as often happens. I’m really sorry I haven’t commented on your recent posts; I have read them all and love your writing, as I’ve always done, but I can’t get my brain to slow down enough to write a comment. I think it’s a case of trying to keep up with so many other blogging friends. Thanks again for your kind words and understanding, Kate. Xx 🌷💕
Lovely write ✍️ you poem. Heart Touching Guilty as charged.
We”ll get behind Ellie, don’t worry too much about it. The main things about do your writing .
I like read , I have read them all and love your writing.
Iam so glad, I like to read your poem. Short and sweet , Really.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Rajkkhoja. I’m glad you liked my simple poem. Many people have said they ge4t behind with reading blogs, too, so I know I’m not alone. If I could, I would spend all my time writing, but then, I do not have enough time to read other people’s posts too. Thanks again. Xx 💖
You are most welcome 🌷
🤠OXXO!
Very nice you would spend time mostly writing. 👍
I so get this and well done Ellie! 💞
Thank you, Cindy. I think many people can relate to this. I find I get overwhelmed trying to keep up with so many blogging friends’ posts, as much as I love reading them. I do read every one, but I can’t always get my brain to process enough to answer each one with a comment. It’s not for the lack of trying, though. I hope you enjoyed your break away from blogging. I read the two posts on your blog where there were no comments. I will read your latest post today as I’m keen to know how you got on and what you’re writing about in this post. Xx 🌹💖
I love it.
Am in the same boat!
I’m so glad you liked this, Granny. Sorry you’re in the same boat. Mind you, you’ve got much better reasons for getting behind that I have. I miss reading your posts, but I appreciate how busy you are. Just take your time and come back when you’re ready. Much love to you Xxx 💖🥰💖
Is this a comment or your poem??
Haha
Love it.
Don’t worry, you will catch up soon.
Just do what you like, take it slow and enjoy.
So glad you liked this, Devang. I seem to have so little time to read all the blogs I want to read these days. I need an extra day in the week! I do enjoy reading other bloggers’ posts; it’s just finding the time. I know I am one behind with your blog, too. I will catch up eventually, I hope 😊.
Ellie, your top responsibility is to take care of your mental health first. It is great that you love reading other’s poems and their responses to your poems. But if you need a break clear your head, nobody is going to fault you for that. It is impossible to be super human so don’t try to be. Slow down, take your time, and don’t stress about trying to please everyone.
Yet another great poem again. I think there is a lot to be identified with in this one too.
Thanks so much, Brian. I really appreciate your words tonight, as I’m just having one of those moments where I feel very overwhelmed. You are quite right; I am trying to achieve the impossible by attempting to read all my readers’ blogs and it’s just not doable. I was fine earlier, and perhaps, I’m just tired, but I’m tooo tired right now. I have 87 notification emails in my inbox (there’ll be loads more tomorrow) and my chances of following up on each one of those, are virtually nil. It’s in my nature to be kind to people; if someone is kind enough to read my work, then the least I can do is to read theirs. They’re all so good, too, and deserve to be read and appreciated.
As I saw your message come through, I was just toying with the idea of putting a brief post on my blog to say I’ll be taking a break from blog reading for at least a couple of days. As it is, I have my two young grandchildren staying with me from tomorrow afternoon through to Saturday morning. I won’t get a chance to do anything else during that time other than to be there for them and to give them my full attention. It’s the least I can do and I love seeing them and spending time together. They will come first over the next couple or few days. Thank you, too, for being able to identify with my poem. X
I wonder what’s stopping your concentration? Maybe you need a good break or perhaps more rest. Sometimes our minds are pulled in too many directions and something has to give. I really love your word choices in this poem, by the way.
Thank you, Bridgette. I took a short break when my grandchildren were staying, but then, I didn’t get anything else done, but they are more than worth my time, and I loved having them here. I know I’m probably doing too much. I try to keep up with my blog as well as complete coursework for the course I’m doing every week. In addition, I’m involved with a local environmental group, which takes up a fair bit of time as well. I just about have time to eat and sleep! I’m silly, really; all these activities are things I have chosen to do and very much enjoy. I just wish there were an extra six hours to every day. I’m so glad you enjoyed my poem. Xx 💖
I understand entirely🙄.We want to engage but it is so overwhelming at times.We all need a break from tech at times.Hugs xx
Hello, Maggie. It seems that my spam folder is fond of your comments. So, I’m sorry I’m late replying to your kind words here. Thank you for understanding so well how overwhelming keeping up can be at times. Technology is wonderful, but too much of it can be overwhelming, as you said. Hugs for you, too Xx 🤗💕