Author Information
"Akeem and Maurice"
by Jeph Johnson
I met up with Akeem and Maurice
In the back room of a hospital
Parading down the aisle
They promised they'd have my back
At least for a while
Ya see my assassin lives inside me
And his wick's already lit
But these bodyguards
Are thuggish rogues
Who decide what they permit
They're two types of terrible toxins
Dripping deep into my veins
Uncouth brutes
Confusing my killer
As everyone's energy drains
They're my goons and guardians
I decide when to let them go
When to render my life complete
And say good bye to 'Keem and Moe
But right now they know how to slow him
And extinguish his advance
If for only an extra tune or two
It's a song I still dream to dance
So take my hand and allow my arms
To hold you to my body
If I can choreograph
One last waltz
That'll be enough for me
Wouldn't that be something;
Dancing over death
Smiling, happy, content with life
Then taking my last breath?
Beautiful people all around me
Loving each and every day
Who would have thought
My life would end
In such a wonderful way?
I am reading this as a
I am reading this as a metaphor. Without prying into privacy, may I just ask if the poem is an extended metaphor for something else? As I said, I do not with to pry, but I like the poem well enough to be emboldened to inquire.
Starward
The bodyguards (Akeem and
The bodyguards (Akeem and Maurice) are a metaphor for chemotherapy drugs ('Keem and Moe). I've got terminal cancer so the chemo only protects me for so long. In the meantime I'm enjoying life and dealing with the two kinds of chemo that at once it's prolonging my life and draining my energy. Thank you for asking.
I am sorry for what you are
I am sorry for what you are having to suffer, not only the physical afflictions but also the emotional toll it must take on you. I have prayed for you. I have not yet had any direct experience with chemo; it is a double-edged sword, I shall continue to hope for a miracle of healing for you.
Starward