The Taker
With an oar and a long boat
Down river goes the deal maker,
Ferrying another soul afloat
... For I am their taker ...
Black cloak 'round my shoulder
Two coins in my bony hand,
I bring the younger or older
Off to a more distant land
Paddling waters, still and gray
Done a million times or more,
Candle and lantern to light my way
Back and forth to each shore
My fee is due on your funeral day
Not long after a warm body dies,
So your spirit will not have to pay
May someone lay them on your eyes
'Tis no easy, nor grim task ...
For two thin coins of solid gold,
Death wears no ghoulish mask
Draped in peaceful shrouds of olde
Entrust unto me, the so-called reaper
Sent on down here by your maker,
Fear not me ... a gate keeper
This olde ferryman ... the taker.
Copyright © Kelly Deschler | Year Posted 2024
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