As the blood red letters spell out, 'You Died.'

I sit back in my chair; this is the 5th time I've tried.

It's not even the last level and already I'm failing.

This time being taken down by some twit, his gun arm still waving.

* * * *

I sit and wonder if there was another way I could've gone.

After retracing my steps across the map, I then find that I was wrong.

Swearing under my breath, I zig when I should have zagged.

Before I know it I'm dead again, wasted by some grunt I never fragged!

* * * *

But the worst part comes when I remember that I hadn't saved.

So I start up again, trying to remember the rout I paved.

I have to collect everything I had previously collected.

I get pissed off more as some items have to gaul to move from where they're expected.

* * * *

Games jar me, but I can't get enough.

Every time I take down another Big Bad Boss, I feel so tough.

Capcom, Namco, SEGA and others, to your games I am addicted.

Every game has a new level of addiction I wouldn't have expected.

* * * *

The usual 'Next Time Around' begins to play in my mind,

As I think of new paths to take and places to find.

The Shoulda Woulda Coulda's are my only cling to remaining sane.

"I'll conquer you next time, you blasted video game!"

The Dark Rose.