Leaving The last Lines Open

(about a poem I have written but not completed)

My friend for many, many years,

since we modelled ourselves in the sixties

on Brigitte B, blonde beautiful and chic,

A French belle magnifique.

She has asked me to pen a poem,

for her funeral.

She is dying from that disease

which has taken a host from me.

She is dying from the disease 

I conquered fifteen years ago.

We have walked the same path,

we have laughed the same laugh

we have partied, we have travelled

both in time and abroad.

I am touched by her request,

that she thinks that I above all poets

can best capture her spirit.

Yet at the back of my mind

I find I can not complete the final two lines.

For to do so would be tempting fate

and I can't quite contemplate

her leaving, even though my grieving

is already under way.

Reviews

[Ted Kniffen]

There is no need for a final two lines in my opinion, Chris. This stands on its own as a fine tribute to your friend.
Leaving the poem as it is I think is a way of saying 'our journey together is not over"

As painful as it was to write, you have penned the perfect eulogy.

and 'sorry for your loss' is never enough...but it is all we can offer.

[Chris Shaw]

This wasn't meant to be an eulogy Ted, but I am pleased you think it could pass as one. I have penned another poem, but will complete the final two lines, when I think the time is right. I appreciate your thoughtful response.

Chris

[Lorry]

This in itself is a beautiful tribute Christine, but I can see the reason your pen pauses. The completion of such a task, despite the compliment of being asked to write their epitaph, is one that would weigh heavy on anyone, but I can totally understand your reticence for completion, it is like that would be accepting something you don't want to, or aren't yet capable to contemplate. I am sure the words will be found when the time comes. Perhaps the last two lines already symbolise that there is sometimes more heard with the silence that such endings bring.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Lorry, you have summed up so well why I am having difficulty in completing those final two lines. I feel sure that when the time comes, I will be able to do it, but not yet. Many thanks

Chris

[Lorry]

You're welcome. I hope there are still lots of words for you both to share that may give you the inspiration required.

[George Coombs]

Like Ted, i also wonder about the need for a final two lines Chris your grieving is, you say, underway and,from my own experiences grief is kind of like a journey and as one journeys the details along the path may well appear different. This is, indeed, a fine tribute for your friend;all I too can offer is 'sorry for your loss' which is all I have and offer it as a companion on the journey-this is briliant sensitive poetry , exceellent work

[Chris Shaw]

Your kind words and response are truly appreciated George. Always good to see you on my page. Thank you.

Chris

[George Coombs]

Your welcome Chris

[Fabian G. Franklin]

As long as the story and song of life go on there is life. Perhaps it is better some things are unfinished. Here's to the final concerto.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Fabian, and yes here's to the final concerto. I appreciate your response.

Chris

[emmajoy]

If anyone can find the words, tis you, dear Christine. Truly beautiful sadness.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Em. Sad situation, and I am working on it.

Chris

[Dave]

Chris - it is so difficult to say those final words knowing all to well that no more will follow.
You are right the final words will be there written, spoken or not. The heart knows.

Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much for your response Dave. Your words very much appreciated.

Chris

[Lyn Anderson]

I can definitely see how that would be hard. But an honour nonetheless. You'll find the lines when they are required. No words can really begin to offer comfort.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Lyn for your kind response.

Chris

[Ken Simm.]

This is a very sad, poignant tour de force my friend. It is much more than just a tribute.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Ken, thank you so much for your visit. I appreciate very much your response.

Chris

[Jimmy Yetts]

As I've said, too often, life is incredibly sad.
My wish is, you never have to write those last two lines; hope should be the last thing to die.
A heart-wrenching piece of work, Chris!

[Chris Shaw]

Believe me Jimmy I wish and hope I will never have to write those two lines but.....

Thank you so much for your kind response.

Chris

[emipoemi]

I often find myself hesitating writing certain lines for fear of premonitions. I feel ya here. Well done! Very contemplative and profound. Much enjoyed!

[Chris Shaw]

You really understood what I was getting at here emipoemi. Yes, the fear of premonitions and speeding up what is inevitable.

[emipoemi]

my pleasure.