Encomium to the Living

Apr 5, 2025 | Poetry, Writing

What would the dead write of us, if they could still pen a poem? What would they tell us, if they could offer advice after death? Why do we view death, or ghosts, as “scary”? Wouldn’t our ancestors wish us well, assuming they did so during life? And even if they didn’t, surely now they would be free to pursue other interests rather than sticking around to make our lives miserable.

Encomium to the Living

After RG Evans

From six feet under, we salute you, you
who tread the ground above, toes wet with dew
behind a mausoleum, there to steal
a kiss. Such “crimes” we happily conceal.
​
Perhaps you sense us stirring underfoot –
don’t be afraid. It is our joy to put
aside despairing sighs of death to hear
your sighs of pleasure, life, and love so near.
​
Now rest against our gray and lichened stones
wrapped tight in one another’s muscled bones.
Regale us with adventures that you’ve planned
to sing us back to sleep, here in the sand.
​
Remember us, now tucked within a shroud—
we long to hear you live your lives out loud.

Holly Jahangiri

Holly Jahangiri is the author of Trockle, illustrated by Jordan Vinyard; A Puppy, Not a Guppy, illustrated by Ryan Shaw; and the newest release: A New Leaf for Lyle, illustrated by Carrie Salazar. She draws inspiration from her family, from her own childhood adventures (some of which only happened in her overactive imagination), and from readers both young and young-at-heart. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband, J.J., whose love and encouragement make writing books twice the fun.

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