Night fell on my shoulders
And my fellow man
Took turns taking rests
Deep within the ship.

And for the first night in weeks,
I stood at the front of the ship.
Your pipe in my pocket,
My writings in my coat.

I reminisce of the days
Where it was just me and you,
My Captain.

I’d roll a cigarette with old tobacco
And you’d pack your pipe.
And pour me a glass,
Of the alcohol you kept in your cabin.

I’d tell you my stories,
And you’d laugh and cry with me.

And every time you spoke
Wisdom poured out.

And now that you’re gone
I’m losing myself out here.

No wisdom comes from my mouth,
I salivate anger,
I spit rage,
Yet I am silent.

I cannot fill your shoes.
I cannot be you.