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The Day After Death

by Delilah Coyne

Family is gathered at her home.
Just to be there for her;
take her mind off of things.
Looking through yellowed photos,
we laugh at old haircuts
and facial hair.
Smooth faces smile from old Polaroids,
the now-wrinkled versions smiling back at themselves,
bittersweet.
A certain picture makes her laugh.
She turns to show him and realizes he's gone.
The tears come quick
and she is swiftly embraced by sons and daughters.

02/08/2008

Author's Note: My husband's grandfather passed away yesterday on the operating table and this was the scene at his grandma's today.

Posted on 02/09/2008
Copyright © 2024 Delilah Coyne

Member Comments on this Poem
Posted by Anita Mac on 02/09/08 at 01:31 AM

It's subtle and powerful. I cannot even begin to imagine her grief, but you portray it beautifully here.

Posted by Keith McFarlane on 02/09/08 at 02:52 AM

It is exceedingly difficult, but necessary, to do what you have done. As poets, we are the photographers of emotion, and it falls to us to capture these moments. You've done so excellently here -- I'm sorry for your loss.

Posted by Meghan Helmich on 07/15/08 at 08:22 PM

*hugs*

Posted by Chris Sorrenti on 02/17/20 at 05:38 PM

Very well expressed. Congrats on POTD!

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