Amy Michelle Mosier

To a stranger who has died

To a stranger who has died
Money is nontransferable –
That the Egyptians tried –
The kings – they’re unconsolable –

But I know of things that follow:
A reputation is transferable –
Fame – too – worth much in gold
As well as a pretty caricature –

Others will take their talents
And I – by a memory that’s perfect –
Will take – cheating osmosis –
My poems with me into death.