The Coatrack

Down the hall, on holidays,

A coatrack would appear,

Which meant that for some company

Those tenants were in gear.

 

Some folding chairs and tables

Also waited by the door

So when visitors arrived, there would

Be room for many more.

 

As years went by, they didn’t seem

To need those extra seats.

Perhaps they traveled elsewhere

To some kith and kin retreats.

 

But then I heard sad news –

The man in 9F passed away.

For Shiva* calls, a coatrack

Was back in the hall today.

 

We gather for events of joy

Though time will take its toll

And likely someday guests will

Come together to console.

 

*A Jewish ritual of condolence