NEVER LET THE LAUGHTER END

(A Poem written in memory of the late great Robin Williams)

Behind the "Nanu nanu"

Behind the "Good Morning Vietnam!"

Behind the "Oh Captain, my Captain!"

Behind the "run-by fruiting"

Behind the "Ten thousand years will give you such a crick in the neck."

Behind the unique uncompromising

   larger than life talent that spoke these words.

Behind the seemingly unstoppable awe inspiring

   comedic genius of our time.

Behind the man who

   with a single facial expression or a few words

   could leave us weakened, breathless,

   and teary eyed from laughter.

Behind the brilliant quick thinking comedian

    who captured our hearts and souls 

    in the rapture of a chaotic form of humor

    that never failed to eclipse expectation.

Behind this kind endearing well loved soul

    who touched so many with his presence

    was a man haunted by a demon

    that many still refuse to accept or acknowledge.

Behind the echoes of laughter and makeup

       of our most prolific clowns

       there can exist a sadness so deep and profound

       as to be beyond tears reach.

Behind any door standing just out of our view

      could be a beast called depression laying in wait

      to steal the laughter from our ears and the joy from our hearts.