Shadow Man

A poem I wrote for my school's lit mag

So tell me now what all you know, tell me what you’ve learned.

Dazzle me with your intelligence, don’t skip a single word.

Explain this vast world to me and the people you call friends.

Implore to me that you wish it won’t ever end.

Once you’re done inform me that you’ve done,

Then we’ll start the fun.

They call me the shadow man, the man of hopes and dreams.

If I’m the man of dreams then why does my name sound so...mean?

What a fun question, you’re sure to catch on quick.

But when I do explain it now, it may just leave you sick.

Let’s leave that part for later, no use is spoiling the cheer,

Come close to me now, come closer and quite near.

Ask me anything, anything at all!

No question is too big or too small.

Of course you ask to grant a wish, why would I expecting anything less.

I will do so but I have but one request.

You know that friend you love so dear?

In order for me to grant your wish you must fill that friend with fear.

Good! Suburb! You’ve done just like I asked,

It pains me to say this but you have another task.

Your family who you love and enjoy?

I have a sneaky little plan for you to surely employ.

I like you friend, you’re just the perfect style!

Can I ask you just once more to go the extra mile?

I swear that this will be the final deed.

Cut off all ties to anybody, this must be agreed.

You seem to have done well my friend,

I am an honourable man so I will hold up to my end.

Here is the wish you begged for,

But I see it’s turned your life to war.

I think you’re starting to see why they call me the Shadow Man and what I’ve never lost.

I gave you your wildest dream, but I made you pay a cost.