Eulogy of a Sometimes Fallen Angel

Somehow, in 2008, actor Brad Renfro's death from a drug overdose was pretty much overlooked. He starred in "Bully," one of my favorite movies, had this vulnerability that was amazing and touched my heart. At the beginning of his career he was quoted as saying "I'll always be Brad Renfro."


Do not return for baby spoons
or soda cans.
Know that you will need all of your clothes,
or none of them,
for where you are going.

You tricked me with open cupboard doors
and some scattered papers that had my name scribbled on them.
Your sad body was pulled from the garbage and into a morgue.
You had that coffin-like smile on your face.

If you pretend that you are sorry, I will know.
If you try to come back, I will find you.
Let me ask you a question.
Who were you in your former life?
Blighted and sweet, I am sure that you abandoned
that secret long ago.