On Immortality

I’d really like this beautiful, reflective poem by Clare Harner read out at my funeral..

About Clare Harner

Kansas native Clare Harner (1909–1977) first published “Immortality” in the December 1934 issue of The Gypsy poetry magazine. It was written shortly after the sudden death of her brother. Harner’s poem quickly gained traction as a eulogy and was read at funerals in Kansas and Missouri.

The poem however is not without its mysteries. This, her most famous poem is often attributed to anonymous or incorrect sources,   The most notable claimant being Mary Elizabeth Frye (1905–2004), who often handed out xeroxed copies of the poem, with her name attached. In her obituary, she asserted that her authorship was “undisputed” . However, recent research has affirmed that Clare Harner was indeed the original writer of the piece. An alternative version of the poem is also published, and with its reference to the ”soft stars at night”, I personally prefer it.

Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there., I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn’s rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush,

I am the swift uplifting rush

of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there, I did not die.”