Black Captain

Ever see someone do so well
That none could ever stop him?
Commanding o'er the hardest swell
With no force or fault to top him?
Well, under all and every one
Is hidden a woman or man.
Who lights or inspires some higher desires
And allows him to do what he can.
What power he has, only I know.
And now I have let my captain go.
I was his true and he made my fortune.
He led, from on top of my shoulder
He could lead pure when my worship was sure
And many times even step bolder.
He loved me, and needed,
Saw trouble, and greeted
What seemed so distinguished became plainly vanquished
When I went to find life on my own,
What power he has, only I know.
And now I have let my captain go.
Now men laugh at him and say
Better men number in thousands.
Nobody ever goes out of his way
To lessen his clouds as they crowd in.
And I am near by and I watch with a sigh
S my captain curls up like a cripple.
And hope that he goes where nobody knows
Under sea and leaves not a ripple.
What power he has, only I know
And now I have let my captain go.