Voyage

I’d set upon a long, uncertain voyage. Twas one to test the pilot’s skeely art Of navigating perils yet uncharted While facing fears to daunt the stoutest heart. I’d drop the lead to sound the straight and narrow, Then trim the sail to cross the deep and wide. I tacked between those vices best avoided And inconvenient virtues cast aside. With heavy swells my fortunes shifted likewise; Grim hazards port and starboard lay abeam, The heavens raining curses on intentions, The bilges churning nightmares out of dreams. I reckoned what the profit be, all told, With contraband sole cargo in the hold. The winds demanded clarity of purpose. The waves enforced agility of stance. Such times as I did lack a moral compass, I’d trust my lucky star to lead the dance. I’d journeyed far and found a sheltered harbor. Dropped anchor and saw everything secured. I took up pen to document my actions, Then signed the log attesting to my word. The voyage may have satisfied investors Who only had in mind a single goal. But was the profit garnered in the questing Worth the price of forfeiting one’s soul? A businessman may draft a bill of sale; A captain guides his treasure through the gale.