Death of a Poet
We need not let sad thoughts
cry out from downcast faces,
nor dwell upon our many faults
which memory may now perceive
in our more reserved responses
to his abundant, flowing, graces.
We celebrate a life well lived,
imprinted on so many hearts,
through words of beauty
sent as gifts;
a message with a smile,
from one to one,
in unity; without denial.
We shall sing in praise
with heads held high,
and then;
fond memories softly spoken
of all that was received
and indeed intended,
to keep and cherish ‘til
our lives have also ended.
Then with lifted spirits leave
and go about our wondering days
knowing that,
through this loss we sorely tend,
the heavens now shine brighter
with the gentle radiance
of our dear departed friend.
We may think that here
his body lies
with pallid flesh unmoving
and life’s effervescence
now departed from his eyes;
he lived a life of poetry
and like life’s essence
that poetry will never die.
Then quietly, unseen,
in some corner of the mind,
he reaches out again;
and once more is found
that gentle, loving friend.
This is a wonderful tribute to all poets - living and dead and also a great tribute to poetry itself. Thanks for sharing. Your poem reminds me of Robin Williams in "Dead Poets' Society" - an all-time favoite of mine.
A lovely poem that encompasses the merits of a poet... even after death. A great tribute from one friend to another.
Wow! Your words provide solace to any poet who wonders in the back of their mind "Why do I do this"? You given additional meaning and comfort to every poet!
Wow David, this is incredible! I think with this piece you have demonstrated that you are among the top poets here. Great work!
lovely poem!
A VERY GOOD AND GENUINE WRITE EVOKING SYMPATHY WITH THE LOSS.
the light of love and purity of humour and reality, forever embedded now in my heart and never apart will he be. Thankyou for this tribute David
You've managed to express the intention and reflect the spirit of poetry in these lines.Thanks for sharing, David.