Sarah G. follows her lover’s funeral procession at a respectful distance, toward the waiting grave. Snugs her frayed coat collar along her throat.

His fancy woman, they called her. His bit on the side.

She studies his wife’s impassive face, dry empty eyes.

Her grieving heart throbs against her ribs.

Gary Thomson prefers celebration of life gatherings, their conviviality, storytelling, bonhomie, over formalized funeral ceremonies.