Don't Miss Me Copyright © Colin Whyles 2011

Don't miss me when I die; use me well.
A square metre of skin will tan
to make a fetching leather hat,
matching sandals and a belt.

Someone who needs a heart of gold
might make do with mine. I have seen
further than imaginable with these eyes. Though old
take them; paired in a set of green.

Bone-handled cutlery is now unusual,
I can help you make 200-plus pieces.
Place centre stage my bone-headed skull;
call it Yorick. Sound its speeches.

Use my smallest bones for divination;
I'm never knowingly wrong. You can paint
with Colin-hair brushes for inspiration
in every silvern shade of grey.

Don't miss me when I've perished;
make the most of me. With relish.