when death came to call
(a customary social visit)
i greeted him cordially
when he departed
i spoke:
"don't be a stranger"
now he oftens
sups
at my table
and when the repast is finished
we retire
to brandy and cigars
you see...
i am courting him
so that when he beckons
in earnest
my departure will be a
friendly retreat, on familiar grounds