wake

chandeliers decked with
elegiac opulence
murmuring hushed with
ceremonial garb

heavy curtains drape
regal sympathy over
red and white

while veiled indifference
of passive bouquets
celebrate mourning.

take a step forward
on polished marble
solemnly bow
in cordial courtesy
step up to the coffin
steeped in remembrance
remember
the standard procedure

presented with austere calm
not a tear -
not a qualm.
dignity conscends
bequeathing decorated charm

a salute due
to rigour and duty
for robbing the souls
of those forever sleeping.


- 4th may '05. written in memory of the wake of the late dr wee kim wee.