so long ago

were it the day
for your life
to be on the block
under the blade
with the crowd
in fear and agony
anticipation
running through
the veins
in your neck
(bulging
pumping
afraid)
what would escape
through your throat
out your lips at last?
a breath?
a gasp?
a curse?
a prayer?
or a laugh
at the look
in their eyes
?