Thirteen steps up the gallows
The first step I think of loved ones at home
All the fond memories they hold for me
As I take the second step alone

Third step I have a guard wipe
A lonely teardrop from my eye
It's not for myself I cry
But for those I leave behind

Four, five, and six I gain composer
Step number seven I lose it all
I wish I had learned from my past mistakes
How far and fast a man can fall

Step number eight is where I call out
In a barely audible voice
I hope those that are listening will listen to reason
Learn from me and don't make this choice

Steps nine and ten I break down again
As guards grab me from both sides
Helping me up step eleven
At twelve I say I'm alright

When I do step onto thirteen
I take it all in stride
Stepping up onto the platform
Leaving number thirteen behind

Now all that stands between me and my destiny
Are the thirteen knots on the hangman's noose
No need to count, I know that they're there
I only count what I'm about to lose