Recompense Reprise

I have not heard the harps of heaven, nor yet the chants of Hell.
But I have tasted a night’s despair that rang me like a bell.
I have not heard the guns of war, nor killed a man in hate.
But I have felt the brooding black that names them both my fate.

I have not seen the rocket’s flare across the blood-soaked sand.
But I have dreamt a soldier’s road where I made my own last stand.
I have not known the peace of man nor yet the love of god.
But I have left a woman’s heart bleeding where I trod.

I have not stood in white as king beneath the spotlight’s glare.
And I have not led ten thousand men into death’s cold stare.
And though I’ve fought one on one where nothing was at stake.
I wonder if I have the courage a hero’s life would take.

I have not crossed Viking seas on ships enlaced with rime.
But I have walked wild woods at night and bided there a time.
And I have swum in waters cold that tasted copper green.
And I have felt strange movements deep beneath me in the sheen.

I have not loved the evil fire that roils the minds of men.
But I have felt the beast inside and reveled in my sin.
And I have dressed myself in honor and known it was just pride.
And I have told a friend a “truth,” knowing that I lied.

I have felt the pallid breath of the dying on my face.
I have seen the dead forgot without a memory trace.
And I have known forever that I would not live too long.
And that thought wets a sweeter edge to every sadder song.