Poetry captures deep emotions in words. At moments when life and death intersect, funeral poems offer comfort. Will you write your own tribute for the ceremony, or choose a piece by a renowned poet?
Whether it’s a message printed on a card or a poem spoken in farewell, mourning poems have a profound impact. If you struggle to find the right words but still want to create a personal tribute, reading existing funeral poems—like those on the websites of major funeral providers—can inspire you to express your feelings. The works of Toon Hermans, for example, are always moving. His poem “Als ik doodga, huil maar niet” (“When I die, don’t cry”) reflects his own early experiences with loss and his deep reflections on grief and life’s transience. A poem doesn’t need to be long; with just a few words, it can convey so much: “Saying goodbye isn’t letting go, it’s a different way of holding on. Grief exists because it was love.” Poetry offers a comforting way to process pain, loss, and love. A thoughtfully chosen or beautifully written funeral poem helps you connect with your grief and the precious memories you shared. The most meaningful words to honor the deceased and say goodbye together.
Poems about life and death
Death is a natural part of life’s cycle. In a natural burial, the emphasis lies on returning to the earth, and poetry can beautifully capture this idea. Imagine verses about the changing seasons—the trees shedding their leaves to bloom again, or mushrooms sprouting seemingly from nowhere, each with its own color and shape. Life is all around us in nature: the wind in your hair, birds in the trees, the sun—or rain—on your face. It’s a beautiful thought that, in death, we can give something back in a way that makes the planet a little more beautiful. Nature embodies the cycle of life and death, and this is the essence of all of Loop Biotech’s products. Made from mycelium, the underground root network of mushrooms, they merge with the environment in just a month and a half. In this way, the end of one life enriches the earth, completing the circle.
Personal words
The power of poetry lies in the personal choices you make when writing. It can be deeply meaningful to write a poem with the deceased in mind. Don’t worry about style or form—what matters is the intention behind your words. This is your chance to express your emotions, reflect on why the deceased was so dear to you, and recall the moments that will stay with you. You might find inspiration during a walk in the forest or on the beach, or by remembering special moments, funny situations, and heartfelt conversations. Reading poems or passages that resonate with you can also help. Your poem doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s about authenticity. You may choose to keep it private, share it only with those closest to you, or find the right words of farewell to share during the funeral.
Want to read more about creating a beautiful and personal funeral program? Check out this blog on the sustainable use of flowers.