“Hang in there!”
They all said.
How mighty queer
This thing they suggest!
Though is it not always such
With those not from spite impelled
But more often from simple awkwardness,
And thus inclined to ease their hearts,
Rather than to offer true and sage advice?

“Hang in there!”
Yes, that is what they said
As my legs flailed in the air
And the hangman’s rope
Wrapped its burning fibers
Tight around my neck.

© Gabriel Hull