Analysis of Kerri Says Goodbye

Let me take the china
and place it on the shelf.
Let me dry the silver
and place them in their case.
Let me view the mourners
and remember every face.
Fold the flag and lower me
Fill this space with earth
It is the time for leaving.
Crack the pot
that brewed the tea,
Seal the silver sugar bowl.
Set aside the smiling candid photos
Wrap the ribbons and the medals
In blue velvet purse emplace
The poem I wrote for you
when I was only six.