No Better Than This
by Michael Doyle

The warrior culture has its code.
It gives respect as it is owed.
Cobra wine is part of that culture.
What doesn't kill you is bound to nurture.

The misperception of too much laxity
Is meant to foster creativity.
It's all well and good to be by the book.
But opportunities and success have to do with a look.

Aces and Eights, the Deadman's Hand,
However it is played to understand - 
Everyone knows the stench of fate.
It's to be known before it's too late.

There's plenty to fear with fire.
The contender knows and won't tire.
Time might force drinking alone,
But the call won't come on the phone.

It's another kind of matter to go through motions,
Hard-pressed and caught by complex emotions.
Sometimes a child of light is caught by darkness
When all he knows is a world filled with harshness.

Aces and Eights, the Deadman's Hand,
However it is played to understand - 
Everyone knows the stench of fate.
It's to be known before it's too late.

When your losing hand isn't worth a bet,
You play it still without any regret.
You falter, they say to get it straight
Until you drive another road that just won't wait.

Life in the pursuit of evil's elimination
Is the top-flight, jet-lagged intimidation.
You stare into tomorrow's abyss
Until you realize it gets no better than this.

Aces and Eights, the Deadman's Hand,
However it is played to understand - 
Everyone knows the stench of fate.
It's to be known before it's too late.

(c) October 9, 2026   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved