Derrida's Last Words

While I don't want to contribute to the fetishization that often attends Derrida worship (English departments everywhere will soon be claiming to have pieces of his bones), I was intrigued by his "final words" published in the lastest issue of Critical Inquiry.  The picture at left is an image of his scribbled card.  The words translate as follows:

"Jacques wanted no rites and no orations. He knows from experience what an ordeal it is for the friend who takes on this task. He asks me to thank you for coming and to bless you. He beseeches you not to be sad, to think only of the many happy moments you gave him the chance to share with him.

     Smile for me, he says, as I will have smiled for you until the end.

     Always prefer life and constantly affirm survival...

     I love you and am smiling at you from wherever I am."