The Great Unknown Poem by Lawrence Frankpitt Fearby

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