R.I.P. Philip Whalen

from the Well, from digaman from gary gach: Phil passed out of life this morning. Poets read him poetry during his last 24 hours, and those who stayed to the end knew it was time when he began talking to his mother. A week ago, Blanche asked him if he wanted a milk shake, and he replied, "I want what they gave Socrates." The final smile now on his lips is that of a man who has just eaten a bowl of his favorite noodles. His body is on view at the zen hospice for two days.