So, it seems
So, it seems
In even the most peaceful death,
there is a grimace,
as if the body gives life’s hand
a last tight squeeze, or is
itself squeezed,
the interlace of face releasing
into surprise,
an ah as the jaw slackens,
as if to say, ‘so, that was it, then.’
So, at least, it seems,
holding the hand,
onlooking.
*************************
A poem of sorts. I am linking this to Susie Clevinger’s prompt on With Real Toads about lace. I have uploaded the photo from my iPhone and fear it may be cut off by some browsers; just click on it, if you wish to see the whole thing.
I have edited this post twice within three minutes of posting! I’m not sure if I’ve made better–but seems to be my way lately–indecision in editing–
Explore posts in the same categories: poetry, UncategorizedTags: end of life, http://withrealtoads.blogspot.com, manicddaily, So it seems, squeezed by life's hand, the interlace of face (and lace)
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ManicDDaily 
May 9, 2014 at 11:36 pm
the consonant “s” sound is prevalent and seeping through this apt piece. I enjoy the blunt length and the presence of hand and jaw together here.
May 10, 2014 at 7:57 am
This is a compact gem, but still finds a way to shower us with memorable line after memorable line, most notably for me ‘face releasing to surprise’ and ‘so that was it then’ A superior imagination at work here.
Steve K.
May 10, 2014 at 7:59 am
Thanks. Unfortunately, not so much imagination, though, of course, yes. I had a death in my extended family this week–a much beloved father-in-law, so all this very much in my mind. Thanks so much for your kind comment. I’m about this minute to post another poem. k.
May 10, 2014 at 8:00 am
My condolences, Karin. See you at the next post.
Steve
May 10, 2014 at 8:00 am
Thank you. He was very old and had a wonderful life, but still sad. k.
May 10, 2014 at 9:27 am
Oh my, you have given words to what I couldn’t express at my mother’s passing in 2007. An amazing write!! I am so sorry for your loss, but celebrate with you his long and wonderful life. Thank you so much for writing to the prompt. (I love the photo!)
May 10, 2014 at 9:29 am
Thank you, Susie–that was such a really interesting prompt you wrote. I will look to read more about it. K.
May 10, 2014 at 12:23 pm
Oh I love this–beautiful!
May 11, 2014 at 2:30 am
We all will cross, will all interlace with life on both sides for a brief moment. This is soft and loving.
May 12, 2014 at 10:28 am
This is a gift, thank you.
May 13, 2014 at 2:07 pm
I attended my aunt’s funeral on Saturday. She was 91. All 8 of her surviving natural-born children attended, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc. You’ve caught that mood perfectly – so that was it, then… ~