The Dark Knight's Lament

In Gotham's heart, where darkness prevails,

I stand as a shadow, where justice entails.

For three long decades, I've fought through the night,

As Gotham's protector, my purpose takes flight.

But with every victory, darkness does grow,

Within the depths of my soul, a tempestuous flow.

The weight of my code, the burden I bear,

To never cross that line, to show I still care.

The city bleeds, as chaos ensues,

And the Joker's laughter, a twisted abuse.

His madness contagious, infecting the weak,

I'm haunted by his crimes, the havoc he wreaks.

I've battled his demons, faced terror and dread,

Yet his malevolence lingers, filling me with dread.

Amidst the shattered lives, I question my role,

Can Gotham be saved, or am I just a lost soul?

The darkness within me, it claws and it gnaws,

As I walk the fine line, obeying my laws.

But the toll it takes, it weighs on my heart,

Can a city so broken find a new start?

I've become a legend, a symbol of fear,

But inside I'm broken, my scars crystal clear.

Each night I don the cape, a facade to the world,

Yet deep down I wonder, am I still unfurled?

The city's savior, a silent guardian I've been,

But the demons I face, they dwell deep within.

I question my purpose, my eternal fight,

As Gotham descends into the darkest of nights.

Yet still I stand tall, with unyielding might,

A beacon of hope in the never-ending night.

For Gotham's soul, I'll never abandon,

Even when hope feels lost, like a forgotten canyon.

In the face of despair, I'll rise once again,

To protect the innocent, to vanquish the pain.

For Gotham's salvation, I'll never give in,

Though the struggle is real, and the battle is grim.

I am the Dark Knight, the protector unseen,

A warrior for justice, in black I convene.

In Gotham's dark heart, I'll forever remain,

A hero consumed, yet unbroken by the strain.