*This poem is brought to you by La Bella Collaborative: Spooktober Submissions!
**The featured poet chose the following prompt: Use the phrase, “the sickly sweet smell of the living”.

Linger


Graveyards are for the living, not the dead.
It is not a merely a place for their loved ones to rest,
As Death’s presence is nothing strong.
Something that lingers.
Something that observes.
What is present, but the sickly sweet smell of the living,
Permeated by flowers and tears and hushed words of memories long passed.
Death lingers and observes Life.
It is not merely a place for their loved ones to rest,
but a gentle place for their love to rest.
A reminder of what once was.
And what will be.
Graveyards are for the living, not the dead.

– Elle Doughton


Elle Doughton is an artist, amazing seamstress, and content creator who has a beautiful way with words. You can learn more about this poet and connect with them below!
TikTok: @e_doughton

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