---

Here at my journey's end I reminisce with pride

And though there are no witnesses

I know that when my bones grow moss

My kin will know my name

My wanderlust is sated all the same

My discordia

My pain and my euphoria

Pave the passage to

The embrace of the bounding main

Many years I've travelled

Through the droughts and storms

Though the wind bites bitter

My old heart is warm

For the deeds I accomplished

Through blood and sweat

And spirit rendered bare

Have been nailed to the mantle

I ride by shank's mare

This mute ascendancy has made it all worthwhile

For there can be no triumph without trial

I'm conquering

The ancient way of things

Imparting consequence

Within my own two hands

Many years I've travelled

Through the droughts and storms

Though the wind bites bitter

My old heart is warm

For the deeds I accomplished

Through blood and sweat

And spirit rendered bare

Have been nailed to the mantle

I ride by shank's mare

And with the change of season

Intrusive thoughts loomed over me

But all my doubts dissolved in the glory of the sea

I've given back the valour

I have no banners on my chest

But I could never claim I lived a life bereft

See that my walls have fallen down

And errant footfalls make no sound

I have no longing for a faultless legacy

I have been ceaselessly enthralled

So with my final curtain call

I am enraptured with ovation and acclaim

I set off in motion with a single step

I have found fulfillment and joy and depth

Many years I've travelled

Through the droughts and storms

Though the wind bites bitter

My old heart stays warm

For the deeds I accomplished

Through blood and sweat

And spirit rendered bare

Have been nailed to the mantle

I ride by shank's mare