A Poets View

I normally do not watch much television.  I am however a fan of the soap All My Children.  I’ve been watching it for over 30 years - since before Erica was ever married.  She’s been married nine times. 

First I want to talk about the writing aspect.  There has recently been a writing team change at AMC with Charles Pratt coming on as head writer.  He used to write with the General Hospital team.  What I really respect about soap opera writers is that these people work very hard.  They work daily to create ongoing dialogue for dozens of characters and have to make it entertaining enough so that their viewers will tune in each day to watch the show.  The show had a slow season for a while however since the addition of writer Charles Pratt it’s an understatement to say it’s been an exciting few weeks.  A tornado hit yesterday and I think in the 30 years I’ve been watching the show this was one of the most lifelike and believable episodes.  It was truly terrifying to watch and the acting and scenarios were just amazing.  Kudos to the writers.

Next, the acting. Unlike movie actors soap opera actors work long hours each and everyday.   Sure, some receive Emmy awards and magazine awards but I have to say that many should receive an academy award.  There are some fantastic actors and actresses on these soaps.  Many who you see on the big screen had started their careers on soaps.  I guess what I’m trying to convey is that they very often do not get the credit they deserve and that’s what I want to do today.

All My Children is celebrating it’s 10,000th episode in November and I think that is a true milestone.  Congratulations to everyone at AMC.