Save a kiss for the hangman

as you approach the noose,

the rope to burn, the lynch

knot at the back of your neck,

soon to pull, but save

a kiss for the hangman,

gentle tidings pass the time

between wide eyed staring down

the audience, a kiss for the hangman

is what they won’t expect,

for in their minds the guilty

don’t display such beauty,

the gallows always call,

but on your way

to the timber beams and strong rope

of public opinion,

remember to kiss the lips

of the hangman.

Ian D. Hall 2018.