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David Kirkby's avatar

Hi Ian

I do not see it as a cruelty. I see it as a gentle and loving - and realistic - record of what is still profound event, no matter the circumstances. It reminded me of my own Mum, under similar circumstances, (I have not written about it myself) and of my Father, for whom I did write poem. If you are interested - https://davidkirkby.substack.com/p/two-poems-for-fathers-day?r=471m47

Why do we write of these things? Therapy, yes, I suppose, but I think it is as simple as the desire to communicate - to share the complexity of self aware existence.

I am glad you shared this poem.

Best Wishes - Dave

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Ian Winter's avatar

Thank you David. Just read your own pair, both touching and so personal. It’s often the little things that stay with us, perhaps the easiest to grasp.

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Amelia Adams's avatar

This was beautiful.

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V. Walker | Poet's avatar

Wow. I’ve lost both my grandparents (very close) and have written a lot of grief poetry. This really reminded me of my grandmother passing. The styrofoam cup, the gasping. Powerful poem to evoke emotion.

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Wendy Varley's avatar

So moving.

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Rebecca Cook's avatar

I think we have to write about these experiences, unless we are writers who do not write about intimate things, or writers who choose not to share such things. I am glad you wrote it and are sharing it here. One thing I am sure of--we are desperate to pretend that death won't occur, or that we can prevent it by delaying it with magic potions and powders and 100000000 steps and prayer. I don't think death should be commonplace. I don't suggest that it should become insignificant, but I do think we need to integrate it into our lives. Death is a part of life, not as Dr. Frankenstein says, "an evil." Sharing your poem can help others reflect on their experience of death in their own lives. I see great value in that.

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