In A Funeral by E.V. Lucas we have the theme of friendship, respect, generosity, acceptance and loss. Taken from his A Little of Everything collection the reader realises after reading the essay that Lucas may be exploring the theme of friendship. Lucas speaks highly of his friend (who is unnamed) and there is a sense that there will be a gap in Lucas’ life now that his friend has died. There is also a degree of respect among those who have attended the funeral. Though the numbers are limited all have fond memories of the deceased. Something that is noticeable at the end of the essay when the procession attends a hostelry. Perhaps to talk about the topic of their friend or having a more general discussion on the subject of death. The fact that the boys continue to play football may also be important as they might be showing the ultimate respect for the deceased who would have wished for them to continue playing football. If anything this is a sign of the deceased nobility. Putting others before himself. Something that he has done on previous occasions in his life. Not only when defending Lucas but also on the bus when defending the old woman. Who the deceased felt was being treated badly by the conductor.

It might also be important that Lucas does not have any bad memories about the deceased as this would highlight the esteem that the deceased was held in by Lucas. Also Lucas feels it is better that his friend died rather than have to live the remainder of his life as an invalid and dependent on others. Which may leave some readers to suggest that the quality of an individual’s life is important to Lucas. It is better to be able than to live and be unable. Which was the only option available to the deceased. It is for this reason that there is no real sadness attached to the deceased funeral. All concerned are able to celebrate his life with fondness even if he may have had a temper. Though it is noticeable that the deceased used his temper in order to help others who may not necessarily be able to help themselves. If anything the deceased was there for people when he saw an injustice or when he perceived that an injustice may have occurred.

You have just passed away at age 85A close life-long friend is giving a eulogy at your funeralList 5 to 10 points that they say about your character and life?

You received devastating news about your friend’s death 2 days ago. You are going to attend his / her funeral today. Write down a funeral speech as a tribute to your friend. (10 marks) END OF

To a Dead Friend’ by Langston Hughes is a short, emotionally charged poem that addresses the disparity between grief and the indifferent, sometimes painfully cheerful world surrounding it.The moon still sends its mellow light Through the purple blackness of the night; The morning star is palely bright before dawn.The sun still shines just as before; The rose still grows beside my door, But you have gone.The sky is blue and the robin sings; The butterflies dance on rainbow wings Though I am sad.In all the earth no joy can be; Happiness comes no more to me, For you are dead.5Mark for ReviewMCQABCWhich choice best describes the purpose of the text?ATo show that the poet is mourning for his dear friend.BTo suggest the idea that death doesn’t stop for the loss of the poet's dear friend. CTo demonstrate poet’s grief after the suicide of his dear friend.DTo explore a poet's feeling of abandonment and loss of his dead friend.

Which of the following best summarizes a central theme of the poem?A. Death in youth can preserve the perfect image of a lost loved one in our memories.B. Grief can unite people, even an entire town.C. War is tragic, but even more so when it takes those with great potential before their time.D. When not given the time to properly form, identities can reflect only one aspect of ourselves.