Flying Made

For years, I've lived a double life.
In the day, I do my job I ride the bus,
roll up my sleeves with the hoi polloi.
But at night, I live a life of exhilaration,
of missed heartbeats and adrenalin.
And, if the truth be known,
a life of dubious virtue.

I won't deny it I've been engaged in violence,
even indulged in it.
I've maimed and killed adversaries
and not merely in self-defence.
I've exhibited disregard for life, limb and property,
and savoured every moment.

You may not think it, to look at me,
but I have commanded armies and conquered worlds.
And though in achieving these things I've set morality aside,
I have no regrets.

For though I've led a double life,
at least I can say:
I've lived