Sometimes Say My Name

Prose Poems by renowned poet Herb Woodward Matin which recount the life and AIDS deterioration of Willie Short after a hospitalization when he discovers his illness. The following account describes the subject of these poems:

Willie Short, 36, Dishwasher

Houston, TX

"Don't forget me. Mention my name now and then."

Newsweek, August 10, 1987

"I was shot in a robbery attempt two years ago. While in the hospital, I was diagnosed as having the AIDS virus.

When I came to after the operation, I saw my father whom I had not seen in 17 years. When he learned what I had, he immediately left, and I have not seen him since. 

Since then, I've recovered from the gunshot wound, but have suffered a much greater loss. I have lost the love of my parents and will never br a part of the family again.

I have lost all my friends who have turned their backs on me. I've experienced firsthand the hatred and prejudice that come with having the disease. I've become a recluse, and have very little time left. The reason I am writing is with the loss of my family and friends, I'm afraid what will happen to me when I die.

. . . I don't want to die and be forgotten. I just want to die with dignity.