IanG

I like the quips and the descriptions of snow and festivities. I wouldn't comment on their talking a man out of suicide as, thankfully, I've no experience of that. I suspect that what works in one case might not in another. Overall its a good story.

The technical aspects of poetry are not my strong point, but the sentiments are appropriate for our times.

I see what yoi're saying and a lot of people will relate to it. A lot of us have had to give up on a dream for one reason or another. Some of us fail using one way, then find another that works. Some people loose one dream but find another that fills the gap. Others are not so lucky.

Perhaps the important thing is to have a plan b. Contrary to what some politicians seem to think there's no shame im having one of those. We can never be sure things will always go our way.

You write vivid descriptions and a good twist. The character of the old man is described well, as is the setting.

You introduce Subrata well. Yoi tell us whst we need to know without going into unnecessary detail. Yoi develop his relationship with the boy well too.

"Tbe few customers until the upcoming dinner time."
Try "there were only a few customers between now and dinner time" it flows a bit better.

You describe the characters very well. I like Joey finding wonder in small tbings.

I like the metaphore of the first asdignment
It wouldn't have occured to me but now you mention it, its a good one.