Farewell Adeline Poem by ivor or ivor.e hogg

Farewell Adeline.

She lay with pillows for support,
a vain attempt to find comfort.
The noble spirit housed within
that frail translucent shell of skin.

Still took a kindly interest
in that small world that she knew best
Her face a mask of silver bones
back lit by a candle’s flickering tones.

The hollow orbits of her eyes
blue shaded now but very wise
The eyes themselves of violet blue
smile on me as they used to do.

Her hands at peace lay white and still
Lily petals that lacked the will
to knit or sew or read a book.
Adeline was content to look

at those who sometimes came to call
or watch the shadows on the wall.
Beyond all pain she’d reached the place
granted to some by heavens grace.

She spoke her voice was welcoming
still had that old familiar ring.
Come in my love and have a chair
beside me so I know you’re there.


I beg a favour my old friend
will you sit with me to end?
I will not keep you waiting long
I see the lights and hear the song.

Soon now the gates will open wide
and gladly I will step inside
Will you grant me what I ask?
I know it is no easy task.

What could I do but nod my head
and sit beside her on the bed
and gently take her hand in mine
to say farewell to Adeline.

I watched her eyelids gently close
as if she lay in sweet repose
Adeline has gone and left me
with nothing but a memory.


Revised May 2009