I Know the Taste of Death

I know the taste of death. I've slept in wind swept skin, Letting fiery darkness in, Forgiven kin. I know the taste of death. That broken icy dagger Not plunged in heart, or soul, or chin, But chilling your chest, Leaning against Your throat. Righteousness. I know the taste of death; That beauty bittersweet of tongue, Lamenting battles lost and won, Enjoying empty breath. I know the taste of death And in it some have lost their way, Veins of varicose delighted, Crown of hollow gray. But here I stand today. Lungs still breathing, jawline set. Hope yet fleeting, courage bent. Firm in life made new by death. I may know the taste of death, But I will choose the breath God Lent, Dancing with that sweet duet And yet Still, my darling, don't forget Still, my love, I will repent.