December 8th

Forty years ago today
Was when John Lennon died.
The world was shocked and saddened
Watching peace and death collide.

My dad was in the hospital – 
His triple bypass failed – 
So while all John’s fans were mourning,
My entire life derailed.

Two deaths forever intertwined
With tragic disbelief
Will always bring me, on this date,
Back to that searing grief.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Rigoler Avatar
December 19, 2020 at 5:11 PM
Tje only public figure's death that ever moved me almost to tears was JFK's assassination. I was never a Beatles fan. I understand your situation, though. / Maurice
Devonshire Avatar
December 14, 2020 at 10:35 AM
I'm sorry you lost your father so long ago, Irene. Time lessens the pain a bit, but there will always be times when it is "searing." A very moving poem that touches the reader's heart. Best wishes, Carolyn
Leffanta Avatar
December 9, 2020 at 11:01 AM
My father died on 16 August, same as Elvis Presley, so I suppose they are both happy singing, "How I love to feel her organs in the chapel in the moonlight" et al. The clock ticks on! Aloha! Rico
Cunningham Avatar
December 9, 2020 at 2:05 AM
We all remember the tragic shooting of john lennon but for you it 's different Ilene, something more personal. But I know you will have fond memories of your father. Tom
Y. Avatar
December 8, 2020 at 5:09 PM
Hi Ilene. While many mourn the passing of John Lennon you think about the loss of your dear father. I’m am sorry for your loss- Alexis
Downing  Avatar
December 8, 2020 at 4:49 PM
A tragic to be remembered all these years with heavy heart...hugs
Andresen Avatar
December 8, 2020 at 4:44 PM
- Your father was a greater loss for you and your family - He was close to your heart, Ilene :) - A poem with painful memories - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
Allison Avatar
December 8, 2020 at 1:53 PM
Oh gosh Ilene I can imagine you tear up and remember your dad every time you hear a Lennon track...I can't believe its 40 years since Lennon lost his life so tragically:-( thinking of you:-) hugs jan xx
Summers Avatar
December 8, 2020 at 1:51 PM
I heard a line from a song that said, "Pain can never erase the pain of death, only time has that talent." I've often wished it was true. Thanks for sharing a great poem.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace