Today, as the Bennington MFA residency drew to a close, a few alumni and faculty members gathered to celebrate the work of Hedy Zimra.  As we walked to Commons, a storm blew up and the wind raced over everything.

We started promptly at 2:30.  I read her short story "The Driver," a story which impresses me more upon each read.  Tanya Jarrett and A.N. Devers read some of her poetry, and Emily Oberholtzer spoke on what made Hedy, Hedy.  

But the best part - the hardest part - was the weird energy after everything was said, the way we said goodbye, and no one left the room, not for a long time.

I will think of the graduation ceremonies tonight, and how on my graduation night, years ago, I danced with Hedy to David Bowie.  I thought reading her work aloud at Bennington would be healing for me, but I can't stop thinking about her tonight. 

Above, Hedy bringing glamour to graduation.  Sparkling.

I remember some things she told me while wearing that dress, but, like most things she said, they feel like secrets.

We miss her.

x
MMB