David Groulx

Defiant Burial

I want my head buried in Gustafson Lake
and my legs buried in Oka
and my feet buried in Burnt Church
my torso buried in Ipperwash

I want to hear the drum beat in Gustafson Lake
the eagle whistle in Burnt Church
jingle dresses in Caledonia
and rattles in Restougouch

When I am buried
as Tecumseh dreamed
and hold my mothers hand
with my mothers heart
beating in my chest

_____

David Groulx is of aboriginal descent from Northern Ontario. His poems have appeared in England, Australia, and the United States as well as Canada. He has published two poetry collections: Night in the Exude and The Long Dance.