Deathly Grasp

a darker piece about life, prompted by an image

The Angel of Death stands watch

over the ancient cradle of youth.

Biding his time until old age approaches.

Searching for the sign with which

he will conquer; nay, vanquish, his foe.

 

The smallest indication of weakness,

or folly will call forth his damning cue.

Innocently the babe grows, insular,

unknowing of the blighted shadow

hovering behind his every movement.

 

Joyfully progressing through merry days,

plodding onward against trial and tribulation.

Blissfully ignorant of what Fate has decreed;

He draws nigh to pestilence embodied;

It's deathly grasp reaching out to embrace.

His Fate is sealed forevermore.

Author's Note

image was provided by Raven Blackwater for an AP contest

Reviews

[MoriartyMesa]

If you ever give a stage reading of this, I would recommend The Kronos Quartet has background, with reddish shadows on a black wall.

[Neva Flores Smith - Cha..]

Death is standing nearby from the moment of birth............well penned

[Daytonight]

This is indeed a very dark poem. But it does so aptly describe the progression of age. Well written and thought out. Keep on penning.