ELEGY FOR A.G.

Irwin Allen Ginsberg
Born June 3, 1926
Newark, New Jersey
Died April 5, 1997 (aged 70)
New York, NY

ELEGY FOR A.G.

By David M. Katz

First thought best thought, the master said,
Cross-legged by a roaring fire.
Where’s Allen now? Among the dead.

Spit out each thought that’s in your head.
Beware the censor and the liar.
First thought best thought, the master said,

Wearing a body and looking well fed,
Touching the lute and plucking the lyre.
Where’s Allen now? Among the dead.

He cuts a slice of thick brown bread,
Yet speaks of silencing desire.
First thought best thought, the master said,

Nodding to me to go ahead
Without the members of the choir.
Where’s Allen now? Among the dead,

Where every thought must go unsaid.
It’s time to say what I require.
First thought best thought, the master said.
Where’s Allen now? Among the dead.