Sayings in old age

By John Simmons

Photo by Mads Schmidt Rasmussen on Unsplash

I say only this: do not become close friends
with Death. While you may, close the door
and send him on his way.

You know he will return, that he always does,
but scorn him with silence, banish idle chat,
he’ll be back another day.

This unwanted guest, you know him well,
the ghost at the funeral, shunned by all,
we feel his presence anyway.

For now, stare him square in the eye,
no need for politeness, not wanted here,
be firm, just push him away.

When at last his appointed day comes,
he’ll hand in his invitation at your door,
with nothing more to say.

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John Simmons is a writer with an international reputation, whose latest poetry pamphlet Berliners was shortlisted for the Live Canon award. His most recent novel, Painting Paris, tells the story of three intertwined lives in the Parisian artistic community. He’s a founder of 26 and writing organisation Dark Angels.