My cat Tikka who had been my companion for 16 years finally gave up the struggle in 2020. THis is my tribute to him. I think it's got some of the best string quartet parts I've ever written. In the style of Paul McCartney and George Martin, of course.

Lyrics

So long, my old friend
You were such a brave companion
To the end
And your fire it burned so brightly
Till the parting of our ways

So long, my old friend
You brought meaning to a life
So near its end
You were fierce as any tiger
But as gentle as a lamb
My old friend

You were there
Every step along the way
Every heartbreak you were there with me
You were a part of it
Right at the heart of it all

And you bore your burden lightly
Facing time’s impassive tread

So long, my old friend
How you loved those drowsy days
That summer sends
Now you’re resting in the sunshine
With a sleep that has no end
My old friend
My old friend
My old friend