Anita Shreve

Anita Shreve has died

She died yesterday, they say.

Her book, The Weight of Water,

brought the murder on the Isles of Shoals

to living, sweating, breathing life.

Her other books, did much the same.

The Pilot’s Wife, from the very beginning,

grabbed your gut, doubling you over just as in the book,

betrayal, conspiracy.

***

I wish you a good journey to the heavens, Madame,

where your work soars, and to where the hearts of all you touched

with your talent and words lift in thanks for your existence.

You are cured of your cancer, now.   You are free of the pain,

and we shall hold you in highest esteem.

Thank God for you!