Epilogue: A speech or piece of text that is added to the end of a play or book, often giving a short statement… after the play or book finishes.’ (Cambridge Dictionary)
Yesterday was John’s funeral. Pakefield Church was packed. Sharon, the vicar, opened with:
‘Thank you for joining us today, not only to say goodbye to John, but to give thanks – for the laughter, the love, the friendship, the mentoring and the desire he had to see everyone around him be the best they could.’
After the service, at The Seagull Theatre, many shared stories of the actor, writer and director. Yesterday was the epilogue to the play that was John’s life, that ended seven weeks ago.
In church Richard, then Tim, shared some of their memories and experiences of the generous, larger-than-life, but infuriating John.
One friend wrote: ‘John gave me some excellent opportunities… I was ever grateful for the support of such a wonderful actor, director and human being he was.’
Karen, the current Seagull manager, wrote: ‘Stubborn, annoying sh*t that you could be, the kindest most generous man as well. Ridiculous bl**dy ideas that you never worked out the actual practicalities of and yet sometimes, somehow they often worked! You taught me so much…’
I remember watching John directing… reflecting on how, as a headteacher, I would critique his teaching skills… His empathy, ability to make people feel special, desire to bring the best out of people, were a superb gift…
Many could write their personal epilogue…
In church, Nick brought us Prospero’s speech from the end of The Tempest – ‘The Epilogue’. Many think it’s the last speech in Shakespeare’s last play. Perhaps it’s Shakespeare’s epilogue. It ends:
And my ending is despair,
Unless I be relieved by prayer,
Which pierces so that it assaults
Mercy itself, and frees all faults.
As you from crimes would pardoned be,
Let your indulgence set me free.
Themes of prayer and mercy, redemption and forgiveness… an epilogue fitting for John, Prospero, Shakespeare and us all.
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