After My Funeral
What a November it is:
a chill gloom gathers
around the heart, and the wind
never ceases its torment
of these last dying leaves
whose handholds loosen.
Look how the ground is littered
with tarnished gold
like half-spent tobacco.
Now, boughs are more lively
than I. But today on these high
ramparts, to stand tall
is to sway, and to stay long,
in this, my favourite place,
is to feel lonely clean through
to the bone, but not afraid.
After my funeral
should you take my ashes
here, be warned – if the wind
is breathing hard,
have a care to spill me
clear of your coat and gloves;
and be quick – do not loiter or resort
to rites, eulogies or even tears.
Simply let the west wind have me.
It will take me sounding a note,
long and low. I have heard
this often in willow and oak since,
as a child, it summoned me.
This dusk of racing cloud brings
rain on the wind. A few lost leaves whisper,
twitch and rise, as if invisible dancers
quick-stepped through.
Page(s) 24
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