L Milton Hankins Poet Villanelle

Speak Gently of Me

Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace
With kind words and thoughts, think of a better way
When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race.

No stifled cries or keening when you see my face
Remember the joys and triumphs of fond yesterday
Speak softly of me in the twilight hour of grace.

Strange we oft forget that all must forfeit space
No mortal shall forever here in permanency stay
When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race

Into the eternal gates of some ethereal place
Consider it right and proper that I should stray
Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace.

No somber music, please; marchers keep the pace
Bright-colored shirts; no suits of somber gray
When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race.

Do not my "flawless" record at my wake deface
Yes, laugh, be happy that here on earth you play
Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace
When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race.

FIRST PLACE WINNER
Brian Strand's Poetry Contest
written May 27, 2021

HONORABLE MENTION
"Should I Cry or Laugh" Poetry Contest
All Poetry - September 19, 2021

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Christuraj Alex May 30, 2021 at 12:23 PM It's a real work of art. Congratulations! L Milton Hankins May 30, 2021 at 12:38 PM Thanks so much for your kind compliment, Christuraj.

Kenneth Cheney May 28, 2021 at 6:09 AM Wonderfully written. Really well crafted and just a super piece of poetry. L Milton Hankins May 28, 2021 at 8:15 AM Thank you so much, Kenneth. Your comment really meant a lot to me, and I am so glad you enjoyed my poem.

William Kelii Kekaula May 27, 2021 at 7:42 PM Beautifully done, Milt, the connectivity of each line bears no separation, thusly, it emboldens the heart-filled words at every magical consequence. Fantastic effort indeed my friend, Aloha! L Milton Hankins May 27, 2021 at 7:48 PM Aloha! William. Your complimentary remarks made my evening! I appreciated your read, obviously.