I SEE YOU DANCING, FATHER - Brendan Kennelly  

Brendan was one of Ireland's greatest poets. I live his narration of this one.
I SEE YOU DANCING, FATHER
No sooner downstairs after the night’s rest
In the middle of the kitchen floor.
And as you danced
You whistled.
You made your own music
Always in tune with yourself.
Well, nearly always, anyway.
You’re buried now
In Lislaughtin Abbey
And whenever I think of you
I go back beyond the old man
Mind and body broken
To find the unbroken man.
It is the moment before the dance begins,
Your lips are enjoying themselves
Whistling an air.
Whatever happens or cannot happen
In the time I have to spare
I see you dancing, father.
From: A Time for Voices, Selected Poems 1960-1990