Loop PNG noted the overwhelming response received when our designer passed away. Among them was a writer from Morobe Province, Bruce Horick, who has dedicated a composition to our national icon.
THE GIRL WHO DREW
By Bruce Horick
When she sat with her papers and colours
I wonder what that little girl saw
That made her draw a legacy
Which will outlast even her own
I still long to look through her eyes
To grasp what her heart captured
That her hands brought to life
To know how her soul knew
What would be the pride of this land
I know she saw no skyscrapers
Yet many a rising building
Fly the colours she chose
I know she saw no gold medals
Yet many a jubilant athlete
Have embraced the cloth she gave
I know she saw no foreign land
Yet she crowned the tears of many
Who find themselves far from home
I wonder still if I would ever be worthy
To salute your handiwork with pride
Whether my life would engrave into this nation
A history as richly worthwhile as yours
You will go to the ground as an old woman
In a casket draped with your masterpiece
But to us you will always and forever be
That little girl who drew
Our nation's greatest jewel
May our tears show our deepest gratitude
For giving us a gift worth fighting for
That many through the ages will raise
With trembling hands and beating hearts
Farewell Mama
May Heaven welcome you with joy
As a thousand tribes mourn your passing
In a sea of red, black and gold
(The young Susan Karike)