I’ll be going for a while by Ern Yoshimoto

Whatever happened to Ern?

Dear friends,

Some of you remember Ern Yoshimoto.  Even though I had known him only a few months, and by knowing him I mean we read each other’s work and wrote thoughtful, longer reviews, as well as communicating privately within WC, I considered him a dear friend.  I just discovered he has been deleted as a Friend on my account.  I believe only he and I could do that, and I certainly did not. Then I saw some of you had written him within the last few weeks.  Has anyone actually heard from him?  Here is the last message from him that I have.  It is so haunting as I never heard from him again.

“Dear friends and readers,

I have decided to check-in to a psychiatric hospital. So, I won't have internet access for at least a month. Please keep writing. I will come and check this website as soon I am released. 

As some of you know my mental health is rather frail, and I have been doing my best to keep my head above water. But I, or rather my sister, believe that I need to spend time in the ICU. The food is bad, I don't really like doctors, and going to bed at nine isn't my thing. However, this is (possibly) a matter of life and death. 

I am okay as of writing now. Actually, I have been numb rather than depressed these past few months. Reading your poetry and stories was the only time I really *felt* anything. I mean this, reading your words have kept me going. But while art is healing, it's not a cure. I need to be institutionalised, at least for a while. 

This was written in two minutes so I hope I didn't say anything to put you off. Let's meet again. My comments will be all over your posts in short time.

Bon voyage!

Ern”

Reviews

[Betty Hermelee]

Can't wait until you feel strong and please come back to the cafe, we miss you
Warmly, B