obituary
things about my father
I never knew

10 Responses

  1. Lynne Says:

    So simple and insightfully truthful. Lovely.

  2. cpharrison3 Says:

    just perfection!

  3. Theresa C. Says:

    Really speaks to me. I experienced this…

  4. peggy Says:

    very nice….

  5. Richard Cody Says:

    Poignant…

  6. haikuapprentice Says:

    Claudette, you write so movingly, and so thoughtfully.

    Another poignant transition in the journey of life, and what I hope is a comforting reflection.

    Knowing the depth of your previous writings, though, I am set wondering about possible ambiguity in that final line. Are those "things" about your father a genuine revelation, or a facade? After all, we all attempt to present a better image of ourselves in public – perhaps in the hope that others will have a fine opinion of us. But day to day it is impossible to maintain such a facade with those closest to us – our children and families know our foibles, our bad habits.

    This poem encourages me to re-examine my own behaviour: to reflect on whether I am living authentically and with integrity in public as well as with my nearest and dearest; striving to ensure there is never hypocrisy or cause for disappointment. And then to reflect on what happiness and consolation I might leave for my family by storing up secret good deeds and works helping others.

    Once again Claudette, thank you for sharing your poems with us.

    Strider

  7. Claudette Russell Says:

    Strider, thank you so much for your thoughtful response. Your comments always add layers of meaning and insight to the haiku you write about.

    Claudette

  8. seaviewwarrenpoint Says:

    I like the fact that this is so open – the 'things' could be impressive impressive or disappointing.

    marion

  9. Claudette Russell Says:

    Thanks to everyone who commented.

  10. martin1223 Says:

    mother's headstone
    my finger rubs across
    the twilight

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