Vigil For My Father, John J. Brick Comments

this poem, daniel, though not about your dad's last moments, made me think of mine with my dad (see how faint and elusive) . the story is well-told, the poem well-crafted, and there's the surprise- him thinking you were ray his friend. i also like the compassionate perspective you show here. and in the close, the future for us is shrinking, rings a figurative bell with its resonance. good stuff. -glen

The poem brought tears to my eyes.Presently my father who is 87 years old lies bedridden.Even when we know the truth, we go on denying the truth.As you said- -we are not ready to face the truth. A profound write, thanks for sharing.The last stanza powerfully expresses how delights squeezed to small spaces of present- - - - but talk over the past, since the future for us is shrinking, all our delight squeezed into the small spaces of the present.

I'm so sorry for your loss. This poem has such relatable imagery in it. When you write about the blending of realities, and having these ghosts 'hurled' at you... It makes so much sense. Also the feelings and reactions of being 'mistaken' for Ray. The line where you describe your father sleeping at Rays while the nurse ties his hands to the best is telling on many levels. The last stanza is so very clear. I think your poem would be a comfort for other to read who have gone through or are going through a similar experience. Also, thanks for sharing your notes.

....daniel, thanks for sharing this one....and especially your poet's notes also....I always look forward to reading those....this is a heart-touching write....I really feel for you when I read this....losing a parent is never easy....my father passed away before I was a year old....so I will never know what you went through with your father....but I do know what it is like losing a mother....my mother was my best friend....and I wish things had been different and she could have lived to be a hundred or more....but we are given in our life only so much time....truly I am sorry for your loss....may your father rest in peace.....

Profound indeed! This poem is heavy, beautifully sad. The way you put your experience into words brought me to tears. That, is true poetry. You're extremely talented~ Also the way you described Alzheimer's was brilliant, and an amazing way to open a poem. It definitely caught my attention and made me want to read on. My condolences for the loss of your father, especially in such a manner. ~Nika