12

There once were twelve within my grasp,

Though they all have somehow gone.

One by one, they slipped away,

As the sands I’d built upon.

 

1 stepped boldly into the night

But by dawn had not been found.

2, with sword, set out to quest

In search of some holier ground.

3 strayed sadly between the cracks

And could not clamor back out.

Then 4, with hope, went bursting forth

But was overwhelmed by doubt.

5, in rebellion, was eager to leave

Not bothering to ever turn back.

And 6 went chasing, soon thereafter,

But fell silently into the black.

With courage 7 braved deserts and seas

Though adventure came out on top.

8 carved circles into the mind

And no demon could make this one stop.

It was 9 who tried to outwit

But quickly fell victim instead,

Just as 10 who tried to outrun,

And, dogged, fell down dead.

Then there was 11, who was truly wise,

But was bested by blinding pride.

And at last there was 12, in whom I had hoped,

That drowned in the tears I had cried.

 

There once were twelve within my grasp,

Though they all have somehow gone.

Tonight I’ll follow them into the dark,

And hope for light at the dawn.