Just read and re-read these two poems - delicate and powerful. It is so hard (and necessary) to write with such personal truth about grief, this strange and complex uber-experience. And you're still only 9 or 10 days beyond your father's death, which is such a mega event, even when expected. Congratulations on both poems with their honesty and tenderness, and your own compassion....
Ian I hope you have had an adequate number of comments. I have read and reread them both over two days - quietly and aloud. It was a privilege to see them. I wish you well in your thoughts.
Your explanation at the start deals with the pragmatic and leaves the feelings and memories to the side. Then the writer/poet takes over.
The Cut-out. Your use of words — irregular space —awkwardness — Tesco’s chiller aisle explains feelings and emotions so well.
Your later one — ‘as it is’ — speaks of the now with hints of the past. You, for me, encapsulate your thoughts (maybe). And those ‘empty words of the celebrant’ speaks loudly.
Moving reflections on the loss of parents, Ian. Poetry can be a very helpful vehicle of expression at times like these. I especially liked the wryly poignant reflections in 'If we were Ancient Egyptians'. Death and loss always a challenging philosophical, as well as emotional adjustment.
I’m truly sorry to hear that you’re facing such a challenging time. I hope that the support and love from your friends and family provide you with some comfort as you navigate the journey ahead. Despite all the pain you've endured in the past, you’ve emerged as an incredible source of strength and positivity. Your generosity within the writing community is a beautiful testament to your resilience and compassion.
Mixed feelings are always difficult. But time helps them fade somewhat, and at least nothing more will come. If guilt creeps in, try to lay it to rest, as nothing can be done now, and it never depended solely on you anyway. May you now be able to live in peace, as he rests in peace.
The death of a remaining parent is always a watershed, whatever the lifelong relationship. The onset of full maturity, but a relief that the person had a good death and can be celebrated. I hope you don't find the next few days overwhelm you, there is always so much to do. A cute baby by the way!
Take care, breathe… it hurts, and it will keep on hurting for long but one day you’ll remember the good and the pain… well, it will revisit you when you remember his favorite things, what you did together, a book, a movie… but it will hurt less. All the strength of the world for you and your loved ones. Take care.
Just read and re-read these two poems - delicate and powerful. It is so hard (and necessary) to write with such personal truth about grief, this strange and complex uber-experience. And you're still only 9 or 10 days beyond your father's death, which is such a mega event, even when expected. Congratulations on both poems with their honesty and tenderness, and your own compassion....
Thank you, Zanna
Ian I hope you have had an adequate number of comments. I have read and reread them both over two days - quietly and aloud. It was a privilege to see them. I wish you well in your thoughts.
Your explanation at the start deals with the pragmatic and leaves the feelings and memories to the side. Then the writer/poet takes over.
The Cut-out. Your use of words — irregular space —awkwardness — Tesco’s chiller aisle explains feelings and emotions so well.
Your later one — ‘as it is’ — speaks of the now with hints of the past. You, for me, encapsulate your thoughts (maybe). And those ‘empty words of the celebrant’ speaks loudly.
That’s why we write — is it not?
Thanks for the considered and kind response John.
Moving reflections on the loss of parents, Ian. Poetry can be a very helpful vehicle of expression at times like these. I especially liked the wryly poignant reflections in 'If we were Ancient Egyptians'. Death and loss always a challenging philosophical, as well as emotional adjustment.
Thanks Helen.
A great eulogy from a beloved writer son. Thank you for sharing. Many blessings to you, Ian. May he be in peace.
The photo is sweet!
Warmly, Barbara
Thanks Barbara.
Sorry for your loss. Gods bless.
Thank you.
Dear Ian,
I’m truly sorry to hear that you’re facing such a challenging time. I hope that the support and love from your friends and family provide you with some comfort as you navigate the journey ahead. Despite all the pain you've endured in the past, you’ve emerged as an incredible source of strength and positivity. Your generosity within the writing community is a beautiful testament to your resilience and compassion.
Thanks Patty, that's very kind.
Mixed feelings are always difficult. But time helps them fade somewhat, and at least nothing more will come. If guilt creeps in, try to lay it to rest, as nothing can be done now, and it never depended solely on you anyway. May you now be able to live in peace, as he rests in peace.
Thanks Liz; my hope too.
The death of a remaining parent is always a watershed, whatever the lifelong relationship. The onset of full maturity, but a relief that the person had a good death and can be celebrated. I hope you don't find the next few days overwhelm you, there is always so much to do. A cute baby by the way!
Thanks Di - though I doubt my son will welcome the thought of once being considered cute! 😉
Take care, breathe… it hurts, and it will keep on hurting for long but one day you’ll remember the good and the pain… well, it will revisit you when you remember his favorite things, what you did together, a book, a movie… but it will hurt less. All the strength of the world for you and your loved ones. Take care.
Thank you.