IV. Death by Water Phlebas the Phoenecian, a fortnight dead, Forgot the cry of gulls, and the deep sea swell And the profit and loss.                                         A current under sea Picked at his bones in whispers. As he rose and fell He passed the stages of his age and youth Entering the whirlpool.                                         Gentile or Jew O you who turn the wheel and look to windward, Consider Phlebas, who was once as handsome and tall as you.