In Memoriam

For my friend Vince. Written 9/10/2007.

 

It’s been nine years since I saw you last

In a hospital bed on a summer day

Finishing the last lap of this race.

 

So few knew your brilliant mind

An artist, dreamer, comic – so sardonic

And alone. You had reason to be bitter.

 

Life was not gentle with you

Your wife, though so sweet, couldn’t stay with you

Pain came to visit far too long.

 

You liked us kids, were like us kids,

Making sculptures of wire and paper for us

But paper tears and paint fades, leaving memories.

 

I remember the things you taught

I remember my story come to life beneath your hand

I remember your passion for the fantastic.

 

You used to paint purple mountains

A bank logo, a church stage – does anyone remember?

I remember, Vince, and I still miss you.

Author's Note

This is my second edit. I rarely write free verse, but sometimes that's what comes out.

Reviews

[Vanessa Whiteley]

This is a sensitive tribute to your friend. Through your lovely words the reader can grasp a little of what your friend was like and what a loss it must have been.