Ancient at 24

Ancient at 24

Here I sit, on the eve of my great war
Though my heart swells not with pride, nor with fear
It’s beat won’t quicken till it beats no more
What have I in this world to lose so dear?

A long silky drag on a good puro
The smooth rich flavor of whiskey on ice
The lustful touch of a woman I don’t know
These are the pleasures of this soldier’s life

This is not too much loss that I should fear
The machine gun’s crackle or the roadside blast
So long as my mates on the line see clear
My actions – or my death – and they hold fast.

All I have left is my valor and shame
I have small hope for honor in this life
Just to live the rest with strength – though through pain
And to lead my friends to fight on – through strife

Though if by chance I see morning and live
What kind of change in this man will I see?
Retribution and honor they may give
But I wonder, will my soul be set free?