DEAR GILDA

Dedicated to the memory of Gilda Radner.

Dear Gilda,

you are a memory of laughter 

when we watched you in living 

color on Saturday nights

as we rolled on the floor,

spilling popcorn and drinks, 

laughing till the tears 

streaked down our faces, 

giving us the look of 

clowns with smeared makeup

while our gut-wrenching sounds

of comical hysteria 

sometimes upstaged your 

very funny punch lines.

We needed you then 

as we do now,

making us forget the 

temporary inconveniences 

of life as we watch your 

ghostly presence on reruns, 

knowing that your comedic 

performances still give 

us a lift with a touch 

of pathos for the woman

who shared her many selves 

to others as an ambassador 

of wit on Saturday nights. 

Reviews

[Doodley]

In the wake of the death of the great Gene Wilder, this poem caught my attention and i had to read it.

As the wife of Gene, Gilda was herself every bit as talented and funny as he was himself. I have very fond memories of their film together, "The Woman in Red", one which never ceases to still raise a chuckle after countless viewings.

I like any writing that allows the writer to express themselves as honestly and heartfelt as they can towards people, celebrity or otherwise, who they admired or are inspired by. You have achieved that here. A lovely dedication for a very talented and funny woman.

[Sonia Walker]

Doodley, thank you for your encouraging review. Gene and Gilda are still fun to watch. I always enjoy their movies, especially the one about their visit to a haunted mansion. ~ Sonia