The Thief and the Shadow

The universe is ruled by none Save for only two, Time – dictator of a death march, Hope – leading a coup. The wizened three servants of Time Cut their victim’s cords. With their golden scissors they rule As eternal lords. The hardy followers of Hope Resisting Fate vile, To cast their eyes on falling stars Fleeting all the while. When Time knew Hope in the morning She was but a spark, Her potential not yet realized Fighting ‘gainst the dark. He chased her down the hall, with her Shadow on the wall – When he turned around the bend, she Wasn’t there at all. When Time knew Hope at the sun’s peak She was a lit torch; He tried to steal her far away Only to be scorched. Ever patient, Time waited for Hope’s handle to melt; Soon she was naught but a pool when At his feet she knelt. When Time knew Hope in the evening She was only ash – Time had marched too quickly, and so His Hope had been dashed.