By Carolyn Joyce Tokson
Pensacola Branch
Please place the coin under my tongue.
I know I am dead now, but it is important.
The coin is for Charon, the boatman,
who will row me over the River Styx
to the underworld where those of us
who breathe no longer go.
If this is not your way, please forgive,
but I am a pagan in your eyes
and it does matter to me.
I do not wish to be stranded on the shore.
He needs his fare. It is a simple fact.
He should have his due.
I will be content in the shade
as I have been so many days
under the grey branches and lush leaves
of the Japanese magnolia in the front yard.
There is a soft breeze there
that waves the ferns.
The tone of this poem is strong – the speaker is adamant . . . leaving this world on one’s own terms and with one’s own beliefs is important to her, even though it begins with “Please.” Though-provoking, Carolyn.
Content in the shade. What a beautiful poem.
I love this poem. Love the symbolism of the coin for boatman
A beautifully articulated concept of “passing over” and the need to acknowledge the one who transports us to another shore.
Thank you, Carolyn!
Claire Massey
Thank you, Claire, for your continued encouragement.
This poem accepts the inevitable we all face in such a peaceful manner. The last lines bring to mind a haiku with the sensual reference to the Japanese magnolia and the soft breeze. Interestingly, these coins, known as Charon’s obol, have been found by archaeologists in many graves.
Striking imagery and interesting sentiment wonderfully presented.
Beautifully written. Thank you for sharing