Paul and Ken lost their friend, Mike Wolf, last night. pf.org: So Long, My Friend is Paul’s post on the topic. Ken is thus far mum has an appreciation up as well. Condolences to all affected.

I did not know Mike, nor did I read his stuff, despite both of these gents urging me to do so. Today I learn he loved Elvis Costello, as do I. I’ll think of Mike the next time I butcher “Alison.” It may not be “Battered Old Bird,” but it’s what I got.

As it happens, Mr. McManus once performed a tune with lyrics penned by one Wm Shakspur. Forgive me for quoting it.

Come Away, Death
(Harle/Shakespeare)

Come away, come away, death
And in sad Cyprus let me be laid
Fie away, fie away, breath
I am slain by a fair cruel maid
My shroud of white stuck all with you
O prepare it
My part of death no one so true
Did share it

Come away, come away, death

Not a flower, not a flower, sweet
On my black coffin let there be strewn
Not a friend, not a friend, greet
My poor corpse where my bones shall be thrown
A thousand thousand sighs to say
Lay me over
Sad true lover never find my grave
To weep there

Come away, come away, death