Something I would tell you son
that's only known to me
a burden it is knowing alone
it's time I share with thee.
Shocking was what he revealed to me
tragic too was the tale
of a woman's loss of dignity
her passing thru fire of hell.
Her I have held in high esteem
her sanctity locked in trust
never knew she was a sad victim
of a man's monstrous lust.
My father felt it would only be fair
it needed him just to be brave
with son the secret he must share
not carry alone to the grave.
I hold it now that grave secret
father left his job was done
burdened with a heavy weight
that I can't share with son.
The woman she is still alive
knocking on ninety's door
her skin a shade of dried beehive
she remembers not anymore.
true story, like most of our poems are.