[The winter projects grey from the eyes]

Selected texts derived from the edited diaries of an eighty year old man shed a light on the troubles of old age, declining health and wellbeing in a year prior to death. The author, Hans Warren (1921-2001) is a well known Dutch poet. Despite his poor physical condition and his mental frailty he confides his daily anguish and his lonely sufferings to his diary, resulting in an upsetting story of unhappiness and frustration. Although quite a few doctors are consulted, their advice seems inadequate or futile. The author's relationship with his supporting partner, who is nearly forty years his junior, suffers under the strain of daily conflicts and humiliating dependency. Despite all this they share moments of love and friendship until the end. The author expresses thankfulness for all things of beauty he can still enjoy.