You cannot save you son from fate
nor stand beside him at the gate
where men are judged and souls
of fathers silent wait.

Protect him not, your errant son
from pain and foolish fun
both are badges of fearful shame
and laurels proudly won.

Your strongest fence and highest walls
will shield him not when darkness falls
for the blanket of night will cover him
no matter what befalls.

Helpless you are and helpless be
for all of time through eternity
none can save him from his fate
He's its master and only he.