The Final Shadow

Its name is taboo 

we do not utter it

for fear that speaking of Death

may bring it forth

 

Yet no one can escape it

when death is approaching

all other concerns must yield


It offers no leniency

no negotiation   

no reprieve

it is the absolute certainty


The very thought of it

can hollow the spirit

and flood the heart with dread


When its shadow falls

so dark and foreboding

life itself trembles


By Shih-Fang Wang

From: United States