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.