Shades of Man

There, over there, far from here, not too far
A man, almost a man, not a boy, smiles
Thoughts of life, things gone past, long past, not long
She dances, in his dreams, waking dreams, she laughs
Never stopping, no reason, for what? Why? When?
Carry on, thinking, dancing, worry is wasteful, regret doesn't fit

There, over there, not too far, far from here
A man, almost a boy, not quite a man, cries
Thoughts of life, things to come, years ahead, days
She worries, for his dreams, shattered dreams, still she hopes
Never starting, too timid, confiding in no one, everyone knows
Carry on, crying, worrying, laughter is wasteful, regret second nature

Here, not there, right here
Sits a man
Thoughts of living usurped by deeds of doing
She swoons, in his arms, forever safe, she loves
Never Doubting, no time, action answers, proves her right
Carry on, trusting, knowing, growing, reaping, sowing

Three shades of man, three, of many