Those of you who are fans of Michael Leunig’s art and writings will know that he passed away in the early hours of yesterday, 19th December 2024. I don’t know whether it was ‘five to seven‘?
Last year in about October/November, or whenever you can buy your large calendar for next year, I purchased the “Leunig 2024 Calendar” that was published by ‘The Sydney Morning Herald/The Age‘. The Artwork and Poetry was by Michael himself and the Calendar Design was by Lavinia Hartney.
I cannot reproduce any of the images because of copyright but I believe that hand-signed prints are available from shop.leunig.com.au/collections/prints. (They don’t know about this post so if you go there, please tell them how you heard about them).
My purpose in writing this blog is to point out the poignancy of Leunig’s poem that is added on the last page (after December). It is as though he predicted his own death and these are his last words to us. I think they are wonderful words and so worthwhile as a guide for our futures. I quote:
The title of the poem is “Good Old Love“
“Oh my God, it’s five to seven
Time to get up and go to heaven: Heaven on earth, a smile, a frown,
Don’t let the mastheads grind you down”.
“Life’s too beautiful for some – Who think that life should be more glum
And overruled and more controlled – But love of life is brave and bold”.
“Life’s a miracle, life is wise – Joy is life’s great sweet surprise.
Love a duck and pat a hound – And spread this good old love around”.
We all thank you Michael for your wit and amazing insight! Vale Leunig.
