From The Seattle Star, May 8, 1913. (Acknowledgements to Jack London) He’s just around the corner He’s just across the street His voice is warm and comradely His words are soft and sweet. He poses as ADVENTURE All debonair and brave Though all the deeds of Barleycorn Lead only to the grave. He comes to you with laughter He comes to you with song With soothing lies to trick the weak And glamour for the strong. Along the road that you must tread Wherever you may fare At every turn or resting place John Barleycorn is there! He masquerades as valor He swaggers as romance And down the road of broken hopes He leads the merry dance. His eyes are red and gloating There’s poison on his breath For call him any name you will John Barleycorn is death.