To Linger

To Linger

Like a wraith in the wind there is a veil on my face.
How long will it be till Death's frigid embrace?
Long ago I died , but still,
How long must I linger on?

My face is a rose that speaks lies,
For the rose inside has withered and died.
I am a walking, empty, rotting shell.
How long must I linger on?

I walk beneath trees of skeletonous gloom,
This I remain till the day of my doom.
And when will that day come, please tell ?
How long must I linger on?

Mournfully, the carrion-bird sings:
"Solace, solace , Lord Death will bring."
If only he would do it!
How long must I linger on ?

Till the last eagle flies above this land?
Till the oceans run dry and turn to sand?
Till all the nations of this wretched world die?
How long must I linger on ?