The first trick
to avoiding Death
is to have a sack at the ready.
Make sure it is brown and plain
so Death will not notice
until you slip it over his head.
Also, Death cannot move very fast —
his robe is made of heavy velvet
and he has to carry his scythe,
so be sure you are always
wearing running shoes.
When Death catches you off guard
with no sack and bad shoes
the last resort is of course
a game of chess.
Always choose the white,
keep your back to the west
and never take your eyes off the board.
Start with the Queen’s pawn
eliminate his bishops as soon as you can
and avoid the knights and rooks.
When you lose
take it with grace.
Look Death in the eye
smile and stand up straight
nod your head
hold out your hand
Death will teach you
the secret handshake.
