Tiger Lily : Michael Would Want You To Make Him Proud

On Tiger’s 21st birthday, Michael’s sister Tina opens up to her estranged niece, revealing the unshakable love her father had for her Tiger darling,

Since you were very young we have had an unnatural one-way relationship which exists because of a tragedy. The loss of a loved one normally brings people closer – but there was never going to be anything conventional about this situation. Outside forces intervened and we haven’t been afforded an ongoing relationship.

Michael, your father – the word smith – was a lover in every sense, and that is most evident in his lyrics. He was at his best when in love and the person he loved most was you. The tenderness and joy on his face when he held you to his chest was inspiring; he kept that pure love for you alone.

Don’t ever think because he took his life that he deliberately left you. Your father’s wild and tender heart sat so raw against the world and he was a sensitive, passionate soul – maybe too sensitive.

It doesn’t come as a surprise to me that you would be interested in the arts – it is in your genes. Not only was your father a brilliant, charismatic front man with a remarkable, distinctive voice (and a fantastic storyteller and mimic), your mother was an extremely intelligent, bright woman, with a witty personality and an incredible imagination.