First the incense,

then the Pie Jesu.

“His life was a bell,”

the deacon said,

“and the Spirit the clapper.”

(We passed her, pulling the rope.

You rang as we gathered round.)

The sun shone, and in it

I saw your Annie,

hardened but serene

from the long, depleting dying.

And the pine box – yes,

what  better wood

to leave the world?

Chris Coppens, R.I.P.