The Keeper

The creaking decks
of old maritime wrecks
sing a lonely ol' song
the gulls fly in
on the prevailing winds
bringing with them
the salty aired dawn

The old lighthouse keeper
seems to sink deeper
into the withering past
dancing so long
to the oceans sweet song
nor'easter kissing his neck

He longs for the haze
of those fresh bracing days
wind whipped his unwrinkled skin
the fog would roll in
it was then up o him
to avoid danger he'd light the way

The ghosts of those lost
often did come to call
gladly he'd listen to them
their anguish filled voices
brought forth by the voyage
that ended upon the lost shoal

He laughs and he cries
and he asked "dear God why"
his youth had been taken from him
but the wisdom he's gained plying the trade
of keeper and caretaker alike
have all brought him
an all knowing grin
that's only gained by the end of ones life.