The Names Of Many Famous Deceased People Poem by Francis Duggan

The names of many famous deceased people we may see fit to celebrate
But some were ignored in their life-times and recognition for them came too late
The artist Vincent Van Gogh one example in his lifetime a stranger to fame
Today his paintings are worth millions he died without a penny to his name.

Wealth and fame only of value to the living and it cannot be enjoyed by the dead
The deceased cannot smile in satisfaction when good things
of them are written and said
No use to those gone back to Nature if their names become known Worldwide
If he and she knew of a poor existence and as paupers they lived and they died.

Wealth and fame only of value to the living no emotions or feelings where dead people lay
If I'm worthy of recognition give me recognition today
In death if I am forgotten or remembered 'twill matter nothing to me either way
The dead cannot feel flattered or offended when good or bad of them we say.

The names of many famous deceased people in history we may recall
But the deceased are beyond all caring and nothing matters to them at all
Wealth and fame and recognition only of value to the living from life's cares the dead have found release
Where the dead lay no emotions or feelings but beautiful silence and peace.