Amy Winehouse (1983-2011)

I did not know her music,
But I’ve read of her travails.
It seemed that all her problems
Only ratcheted her sales.

Her concerts made the news because
She barely could perform;
For her, intoxication
And/or drug use was the norm.

Like Kurt Cobain before her,
And like Jimi, Janis, Jim*,
Her talent seemed authentic,
Her survival chances slim.

It really is a shame to hear
That someone is found dead
At the age of twenty-seven,
With a lifetime still ahead.

But tortured souls have got to do
Whatever they are drawn to,
And we can only wonder ‘bout
The places they have gone to.

It’s sad to be so talented
But plainly, quite tormented.
I’d rather have less talent
But be somewhat more contented.

*Hendrix, Joplin, Morrison