shadows
Shuffling about and mumbling
but often arriving early,
his presence is consuming
dark, brooding and burly.
Even for those prepared
he shows up unexpected,
smearing salt into the wounds
of relationships neglected.
Suspicious shadows precede him
and linger long after;
allow a smile nearby
and he’ll make guilt out of laughter.
In the cloudiest or best of days
he attracts a solemn crowd.
In spite of his equity,
Death should be not proud.