I first met DMC when he was age 14. He did not have an easy life. At age 35, he was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Sadly, he passed away a few months later. I realised I was dwelling on the sadness of losing him rather than the happier times we spent. I wrote this song to try to square things in my own head. The lyrics are what I imagine he would be saying to me now, after his passing.

This song may also find resonance with others who are prematurely bereaved. Here are the lyrics (which could be read out as a poem):

Remember me. Let me be gone - not forgotten. My flame preserve in memory true. Remember me joyfully. In all the empathy That I’d remember you, Remember me.

Remember me In our familiar places, That bring to mind the good time we shared. The things we did aren’t undone, Can be re-lived by one, You still may reach me there: Remember me.

You cared for me and you stood by me And bore me up under cloud and through rain. And when by chance we found a sunbeam, We’d end up laughing again and again (and again).

And from my rocky pathway Beside your golden road It wasn’t always easy To fully bear the load. So now at last I am released from the heartache: There’s no more pain And there’s no more fear.

And so dear friend, one request: When I am laid to rest Still hold me dear, Don’t forget me.

Remember me. Let me be gone - not forgotten. My flame preserve in memory true. Remember me joyfully, In all the empathy That I’d remember you. Remember me. Remember me, please Remember me.