Hello and welcome to Poetics! Mish here as your host.

Recently I read a book called “The Let Them Theory”, by Mel Robbins. If you are not familiar with her or the book, the author, speaker and podcast host shares a method she believes is successful for achieving inner peace. The theory summed up into two words, “Let Them” is a mindset tool for surrendering control of that which is beyond our power. In her book, she applies the philosophy to many situations, relationships and the workplace setting. Robbins adds a second step to the process known as “Let Me”, which focuses on taking control of your own thoughts and actions.

It is important to note that the intention of the framework is not about passive resignation, such as not caring about society. It is not about accepting mistreatment or enabling others. As simple as the theory may be, I did enjoy the book and found it to be insightful and empowering.

These two simple words, “Let Them” also reminded me of the lyrics to a song by Brandi Carlile, called “The Joke”. The song relates to those who have been marginalized, bullied or misunderstood.

Let ’em laugh while they can
Let ’em spin, let ’em scatter in the wind
I have been to the movies, I’ve seen how it ends
And the joke’s on them

Source: LyricFind

Here is another. Country music singer/songwriter, Billy Dean composed this sweet tune called “Let Them Be Little”.

Let them be little ’cause they’re only that way for awhile
Give them hope, give them praise, give them love every day
Let them cry, let them giggle, let them sleep in the middle
Oh, but let them be little.

Source: Street Directory

So what does all this have to do with our prompt today?

I would like us to blend the concept of “Let Them” into a poem. Here are a few ideas.

1. Write a repetitive poem beginning each line with “Let them”. The topics can be trivial or more emotionally charged. If you like, you could follow each line with a response beginning with “Let me”, continuing the pattern throughout the poem.
2. Write one stanza with “Let them” phrases, then pivot by following it with a second stanza of “Let me”.
3. Simply title your poem “Let Them” or “Let Me” and see what transpires from there.
4. Take the theme elsewhere, into nature, space, time, or emotions substituting “them”. Example: Let the wind…. , “Let anger….”.

Here’s how to join in:

• Write a poem of any style in response to the prompt. Post it to your blog.
• Click on Mr. Linky and add the direct URL and your name.
• Add a link to dVerse so that others can find us.
• Read and comment on the work of other poets.
• Pop into the pub to say hello. We are friendly folk.