The Hemlock Society

Ray, David

Primary Category: Literature / Poetry

Genre: Poem

Annotated by:
Coulehan, Jack
  • Date of entry: Jul-05-1999

Summary

Imagine bits of conversation you might hear at a meeting of the Hemlock Society. "A very brave woman." "Not wanting to become / a mere vegetable." "A burden to others." Some other people want to hold on, even though the burden is measured in tons. The speaker concludes that he wants to keep his subscription paid up "and keep / the stash handy."[28 lines]

Commentary

A thin poem--thin lines and straightforward in meaning--composed of cleverly placed sentiments and snatches of conversation. The focus here is on "wilting / to flummery" and becoming a burden to your family.

Primary Source

Kangaroo Paws

Publisher

Thomas Jefferson Univ. Press

Place Published

Kirksville, Mo.

Edition

1994