an unrehearsed universe

Obliging

I will not do the obliging thing
And go gently into that good night

I am bursting with too much rage
To fade quietly out of sight

I will not slink myself away
Nor hang my head with blame
I will not fill my eyes with tears
Nor gamely die of shame

I will not die beneath the shadow’s blight
No matter that they wish me gone

In their eyes the shame will always be
Mine and mine alone

I will claim it so
And wear it proudly

Let it and I serve as the reminder
Of things they desire undone

I will not do the obliging thing
And go gently into that good night