![]() The closing lines, “I took the road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference,” are a testament to a person who broke the mold and embraced life to the fullest. But it’s a wonderful tribute to a life well lived. One of the most famous poems of all time, Robert Frost’s masterpiece is not necessarily a “funeral poem.” It isn’t specifically about death, and it doesn’t attempt to encourage mourners to ponder the transience of life. For those who lived a full and wonderful life, this poem reminds mourners that their loved one is at peace. “Glad did I live and gladly die,” he proudly claims, and his contentment regarding the journey from life to death is comforting and encouraging. “Requiem” is written from the perspective of the deceased, who is clearly satisfied with the life he lived. Hyde, also penned one of the greatest poems about death. “ Requiem “ by Robert Louis Stevensonįew people know that Robert Louis Stevenson, author of the famous novels Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Turner’s assertion that the threshold of death is eagerly crossed by “willing and weary feet” implies that whatever lies on the other side of the doorway of death is more encouraging than frightening. Through the use of nature imagery, Turner evokes a sense of rejuvenation and implies that death gives birth to new life, though we can’t yet see what this new life looks like. Turner’s poem views death as a time of transition and change and emphasizes the calming nature of death. This vivid imagery touches mourners by depicting death as a place of rest. When applied to a funeral setting, the flight of the soul “into the wordless” can be viewed as a metaphor for death. While most poems use “midnight” to evoke negative, frightening emotions, Whitman sees the night as a time of calm and peace. This short piece by Whitman turns conventional poetic imagery on its head. Hopeful but not naïve, it allows us to see the situation in a more comforting light while never denying the reality of death. ![]() The idea of death as change strikes an important balance for a funeral setting. Hughes suggests that death does not destroy or eradicate, but merely changes the nature of those it touches. The result is a powerful and hopeful piece that speaks to mourners. “ Dear Lovely Death “ by Langston Hughesįamed Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes was a master of economy, and his “less is more” approach is perfectly realized in “Dear Lovely Death.” Hughes packs an extraordinary amount of insight into a mere 10 lines. For this reason, we have included ten great poems that can enhance a funeral service.ġ0. Wolfelt refers to as the “sweet spot” of a meaningful funeral experience. Poems are a particularly powerful type of reading that contribute to what Dr. Alan Wolfelt tells us that readings and poems are an valuable element of the service because they speak to “word people,” helping us search for meaning in the loss and activate support. Nationally recognized grief counselor Dr. One way to mark the significance of a life is through readings and poems. By talking now, funeral wishes can be communicated, giving the family peace of mind and certainty that they are doing the right thing to honor a loved one’s life. ![]() Whether you’re in hospice care yourself or are with a loved one receiving care, it’s important to discuss how best to honor a person’s life and legacy through a personalized and meaningful service. ![]()
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