So long, Marianne

Aged 82, Leonard Cohen wrote one final letter
to the dying Marianne Ihlen, who had inspired
his song So long, Marianne more than 50 years previously.

Dearest Marianne,

    I'm just a little behind you,
Close enough to take your hand.

    This old body has given up, as yours has too,
and the eviction notice is on its way any day now.

    I've never forgotten your love and your beauty.
But you know that.
I don't have to say more.

    Safe travels, old friend.
See you down the road.

Endless love and gratitude.
Leonard