Poetry

The Cremation – a poem by Mark Tulin – Amethyst Review

The Cremation As I watched my dog being taken to the fire, I closed my eyes, imagining his soul being transformed, his past ending, a future…
—  amethystmagazine.org/2019/10/18/the-cremation-a-poem-by-mark-tulin/

The Cremation – a poem by Mark Tulin


As I watched my dog
being taken to the fire,
I closed my eyes
imagining his soul
being transformed,
his past ending, a future beginning,
a pile of remains on the hot oven floor.
His charred bones
sanctified by the burning flames,
a spirit floating out in space,
vulnerable in the vast universe,
infinite and everlasting.

Unknown's avatar

I am an author, poet, humorist, and short story writer living in Long Beach, California. I write about various topics, from my early childhood in Philadelphia to my years as a family therapist and finally to my soul-searching in California. These are poetic narratives that may have humorous or serious content or both. Either way, I hope my poetry and stories resonate with you. My books include Magical Yogis, Uncommon Love Stories, Awkward Grace, Junkyard Souls, and Rain on Cabrillo.

9 comments on “The Cremation – a poem by Mark Tulin – Amethyst Review

  1. anne leueen's avatar

    This is a wonderful post. I share your thoughts about the passing on of those of other species in our lives.

  2. Kate@athousandbitsofpaper's avatar

    The way your depicted the vulnerable spirit of your dog in the vast cosmos – that pulls at me. I have always had dogs since I was a little girl – when they pass – similar to beloved humans – I feel their presence by my side, their energy continues to follow me – for a little while, a couple of weeks and then it fades. Maybe they’re just not sure how to move on or not quite ready. Lovely poem.

    • Mark Tulin's avatar

      Appreciate your feedback and experiences. When I left Philadelphia for California a few years ago, my biggest regret was letting go of my cat and later hearing that he had died. I’ll always have a place for my pets in my heart.

  3. Theresa's avatar

    Oh how sweet! I’d love to think of my family’s past dogs with spirits. I think of Rags, Brownie, Ali and Chloe. They deserve to live in bliss after being in this world as well. I’ve had their pictures on my desktop this week! Thank you for the beautiful thoughts, Mark.

  4. Susi Bocks's avatar

    Congratulations on getting published in Amethyst Review, Mark!

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