Ode to Knights
by Neith Hale

Tragedies are made when heroes are born.
From the graves of brave men, songs are brought forth.
Swords are keys to altercations,
For swift are their judgment and quick their temper
When peace is not worth a private discourse.

What man who longs for glory
Shall not wish to take the same road –
Of kingdoms, a worthy liege, and a noble cause -
That countless men have ambled on?

Little boys dream of shining armors,
The fulfillment of battles and thrill of charging horses -
Compounded by glory that deludes
The promise of immortality.

Where then will bloodstained nights trespass?
Will it come uninvited in the middle of an ephemeral dream?
Forget not the cries of wounded men,
The ballads bards sing -
Tales and legends of mighty kings -
For knighthood comes with a price
And not one will enter it if he were wise.