Opinions of the ultimate
Of death th'eternal second state
Are varied as the colours fair
In rainbows and just so much air!
Some say of earth's delights drink deep
For death precedes eternal sleep
Will Omar Khayyam hold the view,
‘Tis immaterial what we do?
Can man who laid in wooden frame
‘Neath stoney slab that bears his name
Reap benefits from worldly gain
Know aught of earthly bliss or pain?
I've heard it said we but adjourn
That deaths prelude a further turn
This finite shell they thus decree
Mere passing residence for me
The Christian says but serve the Lord
And spent in death beneath the sword
The unknown part we call the soul
Will reach at last the promised goal
However, as they don't quite know
As no-one ever shall below
The many think they'll have a care
Perhaps there is a place up there?
Oh! you who would behold the trial
That lies beyond this earthly pale
Let conscience tell you what's fear
‘Tis writ' upon it wondrous clear
May those who hold to virtue's path
For fear of hellish aftermath
Or hope of tenfold retribution
Find in death just distribution
Oh! poor mankind your main concern
Is o'er with things you shall not learn
These scholard men of pious thought
Fill hopeful minds with beauteous naught.
The secret seek it where you can
If best you serve your fellow man
You'll find that paradise you chose
On earth beneath your very nose!
LAWRENCE FRANKPITT FEARBY
1942
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem