A Tribute to David Bryan

Written on the death of my dear friend, David Bryan.  At his funeral, it was my privilege to deliver a eulogy, which I did with a heavy heart but a clear conscience, knowing that every word was true.  His ashes were taken to be spread before the panoramic view from his favourite English Lakeland summit, at which time, this poem was read before those friends who could make the climb.

 

David was at home in the hills.  He lived in Tatham, near his beloved Lake District.  I have walked with him, climbed with him, talked with him - and you could too, – he was a listener as well as a talker – and shared confidences.  Some people are natural friends.  Such was David.

 

 

 

A Tribute to David Bryan

 

High over the valleys

The raven flies its ritual,

While other birds of the places,

Unseen by the earthbound,

Ride the skies

As the path rises.

 

 

The air clears above;

Below, haze obscures

The weight of everyday.

Lightness in the step

Springs over tussock and rivulet,

Breaching the contours.

 

Now, the grass is gone,

But lichens sing

From the rocks:

Lorelei of the high hills,

Calling to cloud-piercing summits

Where the spirit hovers, free.

 

 

 

Reviews

[Kara Emily Krantz]

My favorite verse was the final one - really great, especially the line about the lichen singing.... beautiful.

"Below, haze obscures

The weight of everyday." - another part that i enjoyed.

thanks for recommending i take a look at this poem. it's a great piece, for a wonderful friend of yours, i'm sure.

i'm hiked the hills of the Lake District.... such a fantastic place.... unlike any other place i've hiked. you brought me back there.

hugs

[ShadowWolf]

A wonderful tribute to your friend.

[[untitled]]

This is at once beautiful and sorrowful, light and heavy. Raven .. knows what many do not. Raven feels what many cannot. Raven is trustworthy and stalwart. I liked this VERY much!

[Samuel Dickens]

A beautiful tribute to your friend, John. I don't know where it is right now, but I wrote something like that for my father when he passed on. I lost my younger brother last July, and I'm still trying to think of ways of honoring him. Not just anything will do--it will have to be special. You did well, and I know David appreciates it. Sam