Well, they say a gentleman always knows when to leave a party, and he was that in spades.

I think, in many ways, he was the final catalyst in finding Dahlra. All my life, up until now, I had seen glimpses of him, felt his presence, understood there was something more but not 'getting' it. It's like I'd been gathering pieces of Dahlra up through the years, and when I saw HIM as Snape, this embodiment of dark-haired, dark-eyed, severely beautiful, soft-spoken and strong, that the final piece locked into place, and the years of frustration and confusion were suddenly made straight. I will always be grateful to him, not only for the body of work he produced, not only for his beautiful voice and face and integrity, but for being that last puzzle piece that made my own life snap into focus.

I still feel absolutely gutted when I think he's gone - so very young, as you say. I think he had more to do, and planned to do more. It's a sadder, greyer world without his musical voice and beautiful face. I think it will be a long time before I can read all the tributes. I posted a photo today on FB, and that felt like a gargantuan step to me. Just seeing his face or reading his name still distresses me. I am just so grateful I'm among friends here who understand. {{{Hugs}}}