The Awaiting.

The grave was freshly dug

Just awaiting the arrival of the body

Four Ghosts stood silent in wait

They had waited a long time

The waiting was over

The gravestone would remain nameless

There would be no mourners

No prayers goodbye

The body was checked for the final time

A customerly nod would start proceedings

The coffin was placed into the hole

The gravediggers quickly shoveled the earth back into place.

No words were spoken

Satisfied, they left

Four Ghosts stood silent in wait

They had waited a long time.

The waiting was over

Four Ghosts

Now

Became

Five.

Reviews

[R.E. Ray]

Ah, old friends reunited? As I read this one, I expected the ghosts might be foes, waiting for their revenge or at least confirmation he/she was finally dead. I suppose it could be interpreted either way, or completely differently. Good write, Paul.

[Paul Bell]

I think I started it out that way, then decided he was another bad one.

[kentuck14]

Paul,
Sounds like that last corpse didn't have a "ghost of a chance." Sorry . . . Dave made me do it!!
Tom

[Paul Bell]

Think you might be right.

[john l smith]

I wonder if the fifth ghost will be as patient as the first four
A very grave tale (sorry)

[Paul Bell]

I'm not asking them, not yet anyhow. lol

[barleygirl]

I love this! You perfectly describe my fragmented family (albeit different numbers) & how it's likely to be as we drop off one by one. I felt every word, as hollow & unfeeling as this scene unfolds! You are so creative . . . always bringing us a universal message from a fresh direction (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[Paul Bell]

Would love to come back as a ghost. It's got to be the best gig ever.

[barleygirl]

Speaking of ghosts, I just got a new friend request in FB from an old high-school "boyfriend" (I hated him, he chased me relentlessly). The only reason I paid any attention to him at all is becuz he was a pilot & I loved going flying with him. I can't wait to see how this new ghost story unfolds . . . heh! heh! heh!

[Paul Bell]

Pilots are next to heaven anyhow. One step and St peter is putting the kettle on. Is Facebook up in heaven then. lol

[Mrudula Rani]

This is such a fascinating poem Paul, very intriguing... those four ghosts waiting for the fifth one, their friend (?) is really touching? The whole process of sepulcher, morbidly captivating as well.
Your writings are wonderfully unique, always a treat to read them.

[Paul Bell]

Halloween come early.

[John Alexander McFadyen]

A sad ending in an unmarked grave but in some ways having someone waiting on the other side appeared to give some softer edge to this stark and 'grave' freeverse write.

[Paul Bell]

Graves are always sad places. Always try to stay out of them myself.

[John Alexander McFadyen]

I don't dig them either Paul!

[gram linski]

Nice poem, Paul, pray tell who was the fifth,

[Paul Bell]

he was an other evil one.

[Stella Armour]

Ah, that was a cleverly done surprise ending Paul ...

[Paul Bell]

Should have used your blackbirds for effect.

[Stella Armour]

oooh yes, i could do some ravens for you :)