Auld Lang Syne album cover (Margaret Herrick Library)‘My New New Year’: A Poem by Susan Jarvis Bryant The Society December 31, 2024 Beauty, Culture, Poetry 44 Comments . My New New Year I’m shunning bards of lilt and kilt tonight. My cup o’ kindness guzzled dry by kin Has urged the spurning of that worn-out rite Of seeing lame old, same old new years in… The fizz. The fuss. The toasts. The ghosts. The grief Of echoed resolutions crushed to dust. I feel a roiling ripple of relief— A turning tide—a tipsy tot of lust For Eves when foul acquaintance be forgot— Such vexing guests will hex the sanest mind Along with Scottish ballads—ancient rot That hoodwinks hearts and renders senses blind. As clocks strike twelve and rockets shock the sky, As locked lips kiss and sozzled rabbles roar, I’ll revel in my snoozy-cozy high— A custom-snubbing, snoring dinosaur With dreams that dodge the granite grasp of time And jarring rasps of Rabbie’s Auld Lang Syne. . . Susan Jarvis Bryant is a poet originally from the U.K., now living on the Gulf Coast of Texas. NOTE TO READERS: If you enjoyed this poem or other content, please consider making a donation to the Society of Classical Poets. The Society of Classical Poets does not endorse any views expressed in individual poems or commentary. Trending now: 44 Responses Joseph S. Salemi December 31, 2024 Wow — an eloquent rejection of all the schmoozy and schmaltzy sentiment of the typical New Year’s party. “The fizz. The fuss. The toasts. The ghosts…” is a precious line, along with “lame old, same old…” Susan, you are clearly fed up with New Year absurdities, and the remark about “foul acquaintance be forgot” is a tonic slap in the face. The best New Year’s celebrations are in Italy, where they pile up a twenty-foot-high stack of dry wood, broken furniture, and empty crates, place the dummy of “La Befana” (the witch) at the top of it, and light a huge bonfire. Everyone cheers wildly when the witch catches fire and burns. It is profoundly cathartic. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Joe, thank you very much for this wonderful comment. I had no idea that Italy celebrated the new year in such a fun and feisty manner. I can fully appreciate it having a cathartic effect. I can see myself cheering along with the crowds as all that is odious goes up in smoke. Now there’s an idea for future celebrations… Reply Julian D. Woodruff December 31, 2024 Got you, Susan, and brilliantly done, as usual. But, after years of living in a community without really knowing anybody (the 2 of us aren’t the “reach out” types, I’m afraid), we now have some ready-made partying opportunities that we should probably avail ourselves of. Friday’s, after a long and rather harrowing day, was tiring and rejuvenating at the same time–good wine, good meat, good treats (probably not including a wonderful boar’s head made from rice krispies, marshmallow, and chocolate sauce), and loads of heartily sung Christmas carols, which out of the midst of “Let It Snow,” “Jingle Bell Rock” etc. sounded almost novel (and where these days, outside of church is one to hear carols and sing them?). Sunday was low-key (a birthday celebration, actually), but tonight’s will roar again (although colds and flu are perennial among these revelers). “Poo-poo” is definitely okay, but it needn’t be a hard and fast response. So cheers to you and Mike, whether you’re flopped in front of the tube, busy dreaming up more masterpieces, or just zonked out. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Julian, it’s wonderful to hear of all your seasonal celebrations. I had never heard of a boar’s head before – how intriguing. I’ve been to and held many new year parties over the years and enjoyed most of them. At this stage in my life, I’ve come to learn the wonder of embracing the warmth and spirit of the occasion with my better half behind closed doors in a style that doesn’t rule out embracing all the tipsy-toasting, jiggy-kissy, cheery traditions that make the new year celebrations such fun… but I’m curled up under the duvet before midnight. Happy New Year to you! Reply Warren Bonham December 31, 2024 Brilliantly crafted! I haven’t seen midnight for many years, and I won’t break that streak this evening. I am very likely to enjoy a wee dram of Scotch and I will be interested to see who the “first footer” is who will be first to cross the threshold of our house, but that will have to wait until tomorrow morning. The door will not be answered between about 10pm and sunrise tomorrow. Happy New Year! Reply Cynthia Erlandson December 31, 2024 I agree, Warren; I’m an early riser, and that doesn’t comport with staying up till midnight. Reply C.B. Anderson December 31, 2024 Scotch, heh? Well, I could tell you a thing or two about Scotch. Nowadays Glen Grant 12-year-old is the cat’s ass, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you very much, Warren! I understand completely. I hope your “first footer” comes with a smile, a four-leaf clover, and a wee dram of 12-year-old, cat’s-ass Glen Grant. Happy New Year to you! Reply Paul A. Freeman December 31, 2024 Seems the weather’s conspired north of the border to dampen Hogmanay. All the best in 2025. Reply C.B. Anderson December 31, 2024 Those who complain of rain Always complain in vain. Reply Paul A. Freeman December 31, 2024 Maybe read the news Before you print your views And start the New Year With a spiteful jeer. Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Sounds about right! That’s the beauty of winter in Texas – no rain and no snow, just wall-to-wall sunshine that’s a delight to bask in – unlike the fierce burn and sizzle of the summer months (all eleven of them). Happy New Year to you! Reply Cynthia Erlandson December 31, 2024 Good work, Susan! I’ve never thought much of New Year’s (especially the Eve). And I do hate that song. And I think it’s okay to forget some vexing acquaintances. And some customs should be snubbed. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you, Cynthia. A happy New Year to you and to Paul. A new year minus vexing acquaintances and irksome customs is where I’m at from here on in… and I’m loving it! What a grinning grinch I’ve become. Reply Jeffrey Essmann December 31, 2024 Brilliantly crafted, Susan–and I utterly agree. I’ll be tucked away by 10:00 tonight. Nonetheless, a very Happy New Year to you! Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you so much, Jeffrey. I was with you on the pre-midnight bed – tucked away with the blinds open watching premature fireworks burst beneath the stars… away from the raucous roar of the sozzled revelers… smiling in smug snugness. A very Happy New Year to you! Reply C.B. Anderson December 31, 2024 You might know it, Susan, or you might not know it, but if you took this poem apart you would end up with three perfectly good stand-alone poems, which just shows how deep the well is from which you draw. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 C.B., I had so many ideas and emotions swirling in my head when I wrote this, I know there is more than one poem at the core… it could only take a poet of your wisdom to work that out, and I am most grateful for your fine eye, but more importantly, your big heart. Happy New Year to you! Reply Roy Eugene Peterson December 31, 2024 What a fantastic line: “Eves when foul acquaintance be forgot—” This is my favorite of all the wonderful lines, puns, and other stunners! Happy New Year under any circumstances. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Roy, thank you so much! And oh, those foul acquaintance – how they have plagued me for half a century… no more! Happy New Year to you! Reply jd December 31, 2024 Excellent poem, Susan, to finish off the year. So many memorable phrases – the one already mentioned and “tiny tot of lust” and “dreams that dodge the granite grasp of time”, etc., etc., etc. New Year Blessings to you & yours. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 jd, thank you for this beautiful comment, and for your support and encouragement all year long. A very happy New Year to you! Reply Mark Stellinga January 1, 2025 Another fun-to-read masterpiece, young lady – kept me grinning from start to finish. Con and I, both lifetime teatotalers, invariably cuddle up well B-4 the big moment. Hope your 2025+ is filled with super happy and healthy days – & Mike’s too, of course. 🙂 Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Mark, there’s a lot to be said for your cuddle up well B-4 the big moment tradition. I’m with you all the way! Happy New Year! Reply Russel Winick January 1, 2025 Happy New Year, and please keep those incredible Susanisms coming! Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Russel, I intend to keep those Susanisms coming and I have a feeling that my muse will be kicked into action by the interesting year ahead of us. Russel, thank you for all encouraging comments and for your poetic eye on the ball. Happy New Year to you! Reply James Sale January 1, 2025 Yes, I think Russel’s “Susanisms” says it best! Love the contrary and contrarian spirit (aside from the wonderful technique). Took Linda out for a posh nosh last night, but from 6-8.00PM and speaking to the hat-check girl as we left, she confided that she dreaded her shift – which was till 2.00 AM and from 10PM onwards it was drunks, drunks and all the ways drunk!!! Yep, Burns has got a lot to answer for … bless you for 2025! Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 My contrarian spirit is here to stay, James – it’s taken me many years of wisdom to hone it to near perfection. Taking Linda out for an early culinary marvel is the epitome of chivalry. No discerning British woman would be seen after eight on the streets at New Year’s Eve. James, you are a gentleman of the highest ilk. I will admit that when I wrote the term “after eight” I got a waft of chocolaty mint that made me crave a bite of after-dinner delight I’ve only just realised I miss! Happy New Year to you and Linda! Reply Norma Pain January 1, 2025 I enjoyed your cleverly-crafted poem Susan. I also prefer ‘early to bed, early to rise’, although I did enjoy watching all of the happy faces at Times Square on CNN. A happy and healthy new year to you and Mike. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Norma, it is so lovely to hear from you. A very happy and healthy new year to you too! I’m glad I’m in good company when it comes to old customs… and you’re right, seeing happy faces is a blessing, especially in times when joy is often crushed. We need hope in this world, and smiles are a good indicator. Norma, you have made my day! Reply Brian A. Yapko January 1, 2025 Susan, what a splendidly crabby poem this is as you (metaphorically) throw a bucket of water on the nonsense that accompanies a typically tormening new year’s eve celebration. I love the assertive way you answer the traditional Burns references as you poetically smack him on the jaw and say “snap out of it!” Of course you do so with good taste and restraint, but a smack-down it is. You have unmasked the strain and vacuity of the holiday. I can never again watch that ball drop at Times Square. In brief, your description of a new year’s eve of undramatic relaxation falls on tired, appreciative ears. I am particularly open to your message since in Florida we are treated to fireworks displays so aggressively loud and ubiquitous they can knock one’s molars out even as one chokes on a peasoup fog of sulphur dioxide raised up from the demonic pits of hell. Can you tell I am sleep-deprived as a result? Happy New Year to you and Mike! Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Brian, thank you so very much for your wonderful comment. I especially like your vivid and hilarious description of those Florida fireworks – superb! One always feels pressured at the New Year to join in and look forward with great expectations for the future… always high-reaching, favorable ones… all well and good, until the inevitable disappointment. This year I’ve decided to get real. This world is a wicked one and I’m drawing on both meanings of the word “wicked” here. I fully acknowledge our sphere’s malfeasance and also its magnificence. By our very nature we dwell in the past and look to the future… I am going to live in the here and now, acknowledge the darkness, and bask in any slim yet scintillating ray of light that beams my way… and there are plenty of them down those strange roads only poets dare tread. I wish you a beautiful, poetry-brimming new year! Reply Oliver January 1, 2025 Exquisitely, you’ve wrought a New Year’s rhyme which richly mixes meditative musings and as well a many nod to time, its vexing, hexing cycle, oft’ abused … much enjoyed! Happy New Year. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Thank you very much, Oliver, and a very Happy New Year to you too! Reply Yael January 1, 2025 Happy New Year to you and Mike Susan. I’m glad to hear you got to ring it in your very own way. Guten Rutsch, as we would say back in the Vaterland, or pass the fireworks and ammo, in the case of Turtletown. May God bless you abundantly this year. I look forward to all your poetic exploits to grace my inbox and enrich my life, thank you in advance. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Yael, thank you so much for this highly amusing and beautiful comment. May God bless you abundantly too, and may you long visit the realms of the SCP with your words of wonder! With much appreciation from me and from Mike. Reply Gigi Ryan January 1, 2025 Dear Susan, I don’t know how you do it, but you do. I read this and am rocked merrily by your words and rhymes. My husband and I would have gone to bed at a reasonable hour, but rang in the New Year with our kids and their friends to our preferred tune – “New Year’s Day,” by U2. (Obviously we were teens in the 80’s.) Happy New Year, Susan. I am looking forward to hearing your voice in the months to come. Gigi Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Gigi, thank you very much indeed, and what wonderful New Year celebrations you indulged in! There’s nothing like a happy family gathering to put everything in perspective. Sadly, the world has far too many broken families in it today. I am all too familiar with the 80s music having lived my wilder years in the midst of it. Happy New Year to you! May it be poetry-filled and joyous! Reply Adam Sedia January 4, 2025 Very nice. I share your take on New Year’s Eve, but sadly my wife does not, so after the prosecco I took great comfort in reading a very witty and fun rejection of the festivities. I must say, “vexing guests will hex” is a delicious turn of phrase. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 Adam, thank you very much for your lovely comment. A bout of post-prosecco poetry reading is right up my alley for New Year’s Eve… it must be a poet thang! 😉 Here’s wishing you a happy, healthy, and poetry-packed 2025! Reply David Whippman January 5, 2025 Susan, this piece struck a chord with me: I’m a self-proclaimed party pooper who hasn’t been at a “do” (New Year or otherwise) for many a day. So thanks for eloquently voicing my feelings. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 David you are most welcome and to my joy, I see I am in good company. Happy New Year! Reply Daniel Tuton January 6, 2025 Susan, a fantastically crafted poem that resonates with my own sensibilities! I woke up only the briefest moment when the fireworks went off, then returned to a sound sleep. Reply Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 Daniel, you are a poet after my own heart! Happy New Year to you – may it be full of the joy of new and beautiful rhyming and rhythmic creations! Reply Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Δ This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Joseph S. Salemi December 31, 2024 Wow — an eloquent rejection of all the schmoozy and schmaltzy sentiment of the typical New Year’s party. “The fizz. The fuss. The toasts. The ghosts…” is a precious line, along with “lame old, same old…” Susan, you are clearly fed up with New Year absurdities, and the remark about “foul acquaintance be forgot” is a tonic slap in the face. The best New Year’s celebrations are in Italy, where they pile up a twenty-foot-high stack of dry wood, broken furniture, and empty crates, place the dummy of “La Befana” (the witch) at the top of it, and light a huge bonfire. Everyone cheers wildly when the witch catches fire and burns. It is profoundly cathartic. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Joe, thank you very much for this wonderful comment. I had no idea that Italy celebrated the new year in such a fun and feisty manner. I can fully appreciate it having a cathartic effect. I can see myself cheering along with the crowds as all that is odious goes up in smoke. Now there’s an idea for future celebrations… Reply
Julian D. Woodruff December 31, 2024 Got you, Susan, and brilliantly done, as usual. But, after years of living in a community without really knowing anybody (the 2 of us aren’t the “reach out” types, I’m afraid), we now have some ready-made partying opportunities that we should probably avail ourselves of. Friday’s, after a long and rather harrowing day, was tiring and rejuvenating at the same time–good wine, good meat, good treats (probably not including a wonderful boar’s head made from rice krispies, marshmallow, and chocolate sauce), and loads of heartily sung Christmas carols, which out of the midst of “Let It Snow,” “Jingle Bell Rock” etc. sounded almost novel (and where these days, outside of church is one to hear carols and sing them?). Sunday was low-key (a birthday celebration, actually), but tonight’s will roar again (although colds and flu are perennial among these revelers). “Poo-poo” is definitely okay, but it needn’t be a hard and fast response. So cheers to you and Mike, whether you’re flopped in front of the tube, busy dreaming up more masterpieces, or just zonked out. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Julian, it’s wonderful to hear of all your seasonal celebrations. I had never heard of a boar’s head before – how intriguing. I’ve been to and held many new year parties over the years and enjoyed most of them. At this stage in my life, I’ve come to learn the wonder of embracing the warmth and spirit of the occasion with my better half behind closed doors in a style that doesn’t rule out embracing all the tipsy-toasting, jiggy-kissy, cheery traditions that make the new year celebrations such fun… but I’m curled up under the duvet before midnight. Happy New Year to you! Reply
Warren Bonham December 31, 2024 Brilliantly crafted! I haven’t seen midnight for many years, and I won’t break that streak this evening. I am very likely to enjoy a wee dram of Scotch and I will be interested to see who the “first footer” is who will be first to cross the threshold of our house, but that will have to wait until tomorrow morning. The door will not be answered between about 10pm and sunrise tomorrow. Happy New Year! Reply
Cynthia Erlandson December 31, 2024 I agree, Warren; I’m an early riser, and that doesn’t comport with staying up till midnight. Reply
C.B. Anderson December 31, 2024 Scotch, heh? Well, I could tell you a thing or two about Scotch. Nowadays Glen Grant 12-year-old is the cat’s ass, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you very much, Warren! I understand completely. I hope your “first footer” comes with a smile, a four-leaf clover, and a wee dram of 12-year-old, cat’s-ass Glen Grant. Happy New Year to you! Reply
Paul A. Freeman December 31, 2024 Seems the weather’s conspired north of the border to dampen Hogmanay. All the best in 2025. Reply
Paul A. Freeman December 31, 2024 Maybe read the news Before you print your views And start the New Year With a spiteful jeer.
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Sounds about right! That’s the beauty of winter in Texas – no rain and no snow, just wall-to-wall sunshine that’s a delight to bask in – unlike the fierce burn and sizzle of the summer months (all eleven of them). Happy New Year to you! Reply
Cynthia Erlandson December 31, 2024 Good work, Susan! I’ve never thought much of New Year’s (especially the Eve). And I do hate that song. And I think it’s okay to forget some vexing acquaintances. And some customs should be snubbed. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you, Cynthia. A happy New Year to you and to Paul. A new year minus vexing acquaintances and irksome customs is where I’m at from here on in… and I’m loving it! What a grinning grinch I’ve become. Reply
Jeffrey Essmann December 31, 2024 Brilliantly crafted, Susan–and I utterly agree. I’ll be tucked away by 10:00 tonight. Nonetheless, a very Happy New Year to you! Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Thank you so much, Jeffrey. I was with you on the pre-midnight bed – tucked away with the blinds open watching premature fireworks burst beneath the stars… away from the raucous roar of the sozzled revelers… smiling in smug snugness. A very Happy New Year to you! Reply
C.B. Anderson December 31, 2024 You might know it, Susan, or you might not know it, but if you took this poem apart you would end up with three perfectly good stand-alone poems, which just shows how deep the well is from which you draw. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 C.B., I had so many ideas and emotions swirling in my head when I wrote this, I know there is more than one poem at the core… it could only take a poet of your wisdom to work that out, and I am most grateful for your fine eye, but more importantly, your big heart. Happy New Year to you! Reply
Roy Eugene Peterson December 31, 2024 What a fantastic line: “Eves when foul acquaintance be forgot—” This is my favorite of all the wonderful lines, puns, and other stunners! Happy New Year under any circumstances. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Roy, thank you so much! And oh, those foul acquaintance – how they have plagued me for half a century… no more! Happy New Year to you! Reply
jd December 31, 2024 Excellent poem, Susan, to finish off the year. So many memorable phrases – the one already mentioned and “tiny tot of lust” and “dreams that dodge the granite grasp of time”, etc., etc., etc. New Year Blessings to you & yours. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 jd, thank you for this beautiful comment, and for your support and encouragement all year long. A very happy New Year to you! Reply
Mark Stellinga January 1, 2025 Another fun-to-read masterpiece, young lady – kept me grinning from start to finish. Con and I, both lifetime teatotalers, invariably cuddle up well B-4 the big moment. Hope your 2025+ is filled with super happy and healthy days – & Mike’s too, of course. 🙂 Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Mark, there’s a lot to be said for your cuddle up well B-4 the big moment tradition. I’m with you all the way! Happy New Year! Reply
Russel Winick January 1, 2025 Happy New Year, and please keep those incredible Susanisms coming! Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Russel, I intend to keep those Susanisms coming and I have a feeling that my muse will be kicked into action by the interesting year ahead of us. Russel, thank you for all encouraging comments and for your poetic eye on the ball. Happy New Year to you! Reply
James Sale January 1, 2025 Yes, I think Russel’s “Susanisms” says it best! Love the contrary and contrarian spirit (aside from the wonderful technique). Took Linda out for a posh nosh last night, but from 6-8.00PM and speaking to the hat-check girl as we left, she confided that she dreaded her shift – which was till 2.00 AM and from 10PM onwards it was drunks, drunks and all the ways drunk!!! Yep, Burns has got a lot to answer for … bless you for 2025! Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 My contrarian spirit is here to stay, James – it’s taken me many years of wisdom to hone it to near perfection. Taking Linda out for an early culinary marvel is the epitome of chivalry. No discerning British woman would be seen after eight on the streets at New Year’s Eve. James, you are a gentleman of the highest ilk. I will admit that when I wrote the term “after eight” I got a waft of chocolaty mint that made me crave a bite of after-dinner delight I’ve only just realised I miss! Happy New Year to you and Linda! Reply
Norma Pain January 1, 2025 I enjoyed your cleverly-crafted poem Susan. I also prefer ‘early to bed, early to rise’, although I did enjoy watching all of the happy faces at Times Square on CNN. A happy and healthy new year to you and Mike. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 1, 2025 Norma, it is so lovely to hear from you. A very happy and healthy new year to you too! I’m glad I’m in good company when it comes to old customs… and you’re right, seeing happy faces is a blessing, especially in times when joy is often crushed. We need hope in this world, and smiles are a good indicator. Norma, you have made my day! Reply
Brian A. Yapko January 1, 2025 Susan, what a splendidly crabby poem this is as you (metaphorically) throw a bucket of water on the nonsense that accompanies a typically tormening new year’s eve celebration. I love the assertive way you answer the traditional Burns references as you poetically smack him on the jaw and say “snap out of it!” Of course you do so with good taste and restraint, but a smack-down it is. You have unmasked the strain and vacuity of the holiday. I can never again watch that ball drop at Times Square. In brief, your description of a new year’s eve of undramatic relaxation falls on tired, appreciative ears. I am particularly open to your message since in Florida we are treated to fireworks displays so aggressively loud and ubiquitous they can knock one’s molars out even as one chokes on a peasoup fog of sulphur dioxide raised up from the demonic pits of hell. Can you tell I am sleep-deprived as a result? Happy New Year to you and Mike! Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Brian, thank you so very much for your wonderful comment. I especially like your vivid and hilarious description of those Florida fireworks – superb! One always feels pressured at the New Year to join in and look forward with great expectations for the future… always high-reaching, favorable ones… all well and good, until the inevitable disappointment. This year I’ve decided to get real. This world is a wicked one and I’m drawing on both meanings of the word “wicked” here. I fully acknowledge our sphere’s malfeasance and also its magnificence. By our very nature we dwell in the past and look to the future… I am going to live in the here and now, acknowledge the darkness, and bask in any slim yet scintillating ray of light that beams my way… and there are plenty of them down those strange roads only poets dare tread. I wish you a beautiful, poetry-brimming new year! Reply
Oliver January 1, 2025 Exquisitely, you’ve wrought a New Year’s rhyme which richly mixes meditative musings and as well a many nod to time, its vexing, hexing cycle, oft’ abused … much enjoyed! Happy New Year. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Thank you very much, Oliver, and a very Happy New Year to you too! Reply
Yael January 1, 2025 Happy New Year to you and Mike Susan. I’m glad to hear you got to ring it in your very own way. Guten Rutsch, as we would say back in the Vaterland, or pass the fireworks and ammo, in the case of Turtletown. May God bless you abundantly this year. I look forward to all your poetic exploits to grace my inbox and enrich my life, thank you in advance. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Yael, thank you so much for this highly amusing and beautiful comment. May God bless you abundantly too, and may you long visit the realms of the SCP with your words of wonder! With much appreciation from me and from Mike. Reply
Gigi Ryan January 1, 2025 Dear Susan, I don’t know how you do it, but you do. I read this and am rocked merrily by your words and rhymes. My husband and I would have gone to bed at a reasonable hour, but rang in the New Year with our kids and their friends to our preferred tune – “New Year’s Day,” by U2. (Obviously we were teens in the 80’s.) Happy New Year, Susan. I am looking forward to hearing your voice in the months to come. Gigi Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 2, 2025 Gigi, thank you very much indeed, and what wonderful New Year celebrations you indulged in! There’s nothing like a happy family gathering to put everything in perspective. Sadly, the world has far too many broken families in it today. I am all too familiar with the 80s music having lived my wilder years in the midst of it. Happy New Year to you! May it be poetry-filled and joyous! Reply
Adam Sedia January 4, 2025 Very nice. I share your take on New Year’s Eve, but sadly my wife does not, so after the prosecco I took great comfort in reading a very witty and fun rejection of the festivities. I must say, “vexing guests will hex” is a delicious turn of phrase. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 Adam, thank you very much for your lovely comment. A bout of post-prosecco poetry reading is right up my alley for New Year’s Eve… it must be a poet thang! 😉 Here’s wishing you a happy, healthy, and poetry-packed 2025! Reply
David Whippman January 5, 2025 Susan, this piece struck a chord with me: I’m a self-proclaimed party pooper who hasn’t been at a “do” (New Year or otherwise) for many a day. So thanks for eloquently voicing my feelings. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 David you are most welcome and to my joy, I see I am in good company. Happy New Year! Reply
Daniel Tuton January 6, 2025 Susan, a fantastically crafted poem that resonates with my own sensibilities! I woke up only the briefest moment when the fireworks went off, then returned to a sound sleep. Reply
Susan Jarvis Bryant January 6, 2025 Daniel, you are a poet after my own heart! Happy New Year to you – may it be full of the joy of new and beautiful rhyming and rhythmic creations! Reply
