CORONER'S REPORT

Someone says,
"I'd see her at church
on Sundays,
always singing along
to the hymns."

The body drawer is opened
and the-post-mortem expert
is sharpening his knives.

Man he worked with:
"Always took him
for a good guy.
Never suspected this."

Doctor's speaking
into a microphone,
recording every stab wound,
each lacerated organ.

Neighbor's verdict:
"They were a quiet couple,
kept to themselves,
but we waved to each other
every now and then."

Coroner's report:
hymn singing,
heartfelt but insufficient;
a singular lack
of suspicion;
drowning really does
resemble waving.

-- John Grey