"I'm sure it's a metaphor of sorts" I feel the same way.

Is "Soda Pop..." an actual song or no? I've never heard of it.

Whether it's a song or not, I like how the last lines connect to the element of music. And how the lines "While the worst continue marching on,/Free of the burden of immortality" connect to the lines about the little boy and the knight and the poet, who aren't around anymore. It's kind of sad in a way, but it isn't overwhelming because...I don't know, because you've written it in this way.

I like this poem, is what I'm trying to say. Nice job.

I like it, very well formed.

Good work, as usual.