Direct Cremation

We get too morbid about death! Celebrate Burns Night!

I want to go out like Bowie.

If it's good enough

for the man who fell to earth,

our Star Man, Ziggy Stardust,

then it is good enough for me.

No fuss, no ceremony,

no flowers

or prayers,

speeches

or hymns.

No Priests,

definitely no priests!

No coffin,

no hearse

or pall-bearing,

no eulogies,

no finger buffet

and definitely

no tears.

Spread my ashes

in a warm place.

Joyfully

dine out on me

in style,

recall me,

call me,

slag me off

with my chosen music

the background

in your ears.

Then remember

how short life is

and leave death to me.

 

14/03/19

Author's Note

Reviews

[John the Baptist]

Like the terse, matter of fact wording of this one. Having been exposed to a number of open coffin exhibitions in my life, I sympathize with the poem's philosophy entirely.

[John Alexander McFadyen]

Thank you Sir. I have been to a few funerals recently and find them completely alien.

[Chris Shaw]

There's alot to be said for this type of exit. It would suit me perfectly. Doing it your own way. Ashes scattered to the wind in a favourite setting. Nicely composed John.

Chris

[John Alexander McFadyen]

Thanks Chris. This is exactly how I plan to leave. And the only requirement is a meal in a fine restaurant with my choice of music in the background.

[Pete]

hmm, sounds good to me. wouldn't mind this kind of sendoff ... :)

"When the leaves fall, the whole earth is a cemetery pleasant to walk in. I love to wander and muse over them in their graves. Here are no lying nor vain epitaphs." - Thoreau

[John Alexander McFadyen]

Thanks Pete. No grave and no epitaph for me so the walks will be in the woods lol!