Even Sheltering Trees May Fall

Thoughts about the unexpected death of someone I knew long ago. (For Amy)

 

Even Sheltering Trees May Fall

 

Even sheltering trees may fall

if the wind gusts grow fierce

or a spark burns its way.

 

I read your obit with surprise

to see a name I knew,

a living, vibrant girl back when.

 

It’s thirty years

since that curly mop

shone atop your head.

 

since we drove home to NY

sharing a ride in my Saab

dropping you at your parents’ door.

 

The words tell the woman you’d become,

the lawyer and advocate,

parent and wife.

 

It doesn’t voice your fear

at giving back a life well-lived

as that spark caught fire inside you.

Reviews

[B. Lapinski]

i've had this happen to me, but in a very different way. another good write

[Gary H]

Packs a real emotional puch and must have been a shock to see the obituary. A wonderful tribute remembering a past together however brief it may have been.
A sad poem, extremely touching write.

[Thomas Dylan]

This packs a real emotional punch. It could have been written about an ex-lover fondly remembered, it is that tender and understated.

It's a real distilled piece of storytelling, well laid out, which helps to add to the impact.
Great poem.

[Phantom Heart]

"I read your obit with surprise
to see a name I knew,
a living, vibrant girl back when."

I am moved. I think this shows a depth that everyone at one time or another will and can relate to. It is very well written and my best wishes.

[Antony]

David this is a beautiful tribute to your late friend, Sorry
Tony

[Cari Lynn Vaughn]

Deeply moving and profoundly sad. Wonderfully worded.

[Paul Grimsley]

those last three lines made the piece for me -- you hit the nail right on the head with those words; captured a poignancy which all of us would wish to be eulogised with. thee is some kind of zen calm at work in this piece that just makes it flow with ease. a profound sentiment simply expressed.

[Barry S. Maltese]

You are so-o-o right. So much is left out of an obituary. They say "left behind a loving wife____ and Children ____" But what flames burned inside of them? What empassioned them? What dreams guided their hopes and desires? What else will die with them.
Great write. You open many questions with that closed casket.

[Gandré]

This was written with a longing to turn time back...I very enjoyed it. aww David, my new favorite of yours..so remarkable and sad and as the reviewer below said - a potent image.

[Lionel Braud]

this is a very potent vigil without the fluff and unecessary verbage. it is straight and to the point but a very potent image as well.