When There's a Madman at the Helm

Can you imagine being on a ship

And being tossed to and fro,

With blustery winds of uncertainty threatening

To toss you into the depths below?

The waves of contempt bash against

What was once a sturdy bow.

The only thought that runs through your mind

Is "I have to survive, but HOW?"

Pelted by the freezing rain,

You and your fellow travelers on board

Clutch one another and ask yourselves,

"Why were earlier warnings ignored?"

The captain's chilling words still haunt you:

"I give commands; you will heed them!"

During the journey he let loose the lifeboats,

Screaming madly, "We won't need them!"

Running in circles, the captain's crew--

Inexperienced and unprepared--

Go through the motions of helping the travelers

And try to hide the fact that they're scared.

Icebergs rise and fall in the distance;

Alarm signals are flashing red.

"Never mind!" the captain shouts.

"Damn the icebergs! Full speed ahead!"

Ignoring advice, the captain defies

The waves threatening to overwhelm

The ship. Yes, pity the travelers

When there's a madman at the helm.

(2-4-17) By Bob B