9th April 2014

Sonnet 125

I'll make her a handpainted canopy -

And deliver the last speech honouring

A life lightly rouged for eternity,

No mourners with their memories ruining,

I've  heard the dwellers on form and favour

Pay their dull respects of inflated rent,

Lip defence against death's rattling savour:

When I left just as her breathing was spent

I could not find obsequious in my heart;

Old photographs that belie I was ever free

Not to make dutiful daughter my art -

Our mutuall render:  one way me for thee.

    Laid out in white: stubborn, stubborn soul;

    I scribbled a  mask*, she gave up control .


*Refers to practice of applying cosmetics to deceased persons.