Glynis Johns

I somehow missed the news last week that Glynis Johns had died. She was a hundred years old, the English actress died in Hollywood. Most people remember her now as the mother in Mary Poppins but that fine film was preceded by many years of divine turns by the great Glynis. A comedic actress of wonderful subtlety and instinct, her wit paired well with her cheesecake looks. Perhaps her finest hour was as Danny Kaye's love interest in The Court Jester.

It seems she was a delightful person in life. This interview about her mermaid comedy, Miranda, has stuck with me for years:

On top of everything else, she was also a singer and she was the original singer of the song "Send in the Clowns"--Stephen Sondheim wrote the song for her.

Here's to you, Glynis Johns.

X Sonnet #1806

Addressing digits, clocks create a time.
As eras close, eruptions pop for corks.
Forgotten days were special hills to climb.
The year became an extra pack of forks.
Her foggy breath revealed the airy sprite.
But now the clouds disrobe the pixie pack.
They danced as lightning charged the lounge with light.
The while waiting trolls prepare a sack.
From dizzy heights to frothy shores she swam.
Desire plucked her bottle off a shelf.
No greater light was ever shed by dame.
Yet all were charmed as by a little elf.
The bosey bits ascend above the tank.
She enters now among the angels' rank.