The Poem of K'naslah

In ancient times, before any recorded history, K'naslah was a being of great power, perhaps even a god. K'naslah is not directly mentioned in the poem but it has always been referred to as The Poem of K'naslah.

Summary

Fragmented history suggests that this poem was used to invoke the favor of K'naslah to kill someone, likely in a horrifying manner. It is believed that a ritual of some kind was involved, but the specifics have been lost in history.
It is quite likely that the ritual would be done while reciting the poem and required some kind of sacrifice to K'naslah, either as payment or as a catalyst for the favor. The 'boon' mentioned in the poem could either be the sacrifice or favor that would be required in return for K'naslah's favor. Whether it being a ritual sacrifice, or a favor, neither would likely be something pleasant.

Historical Basis

Most knowledge of the ancient gods has been lost to time, but even in recorded history, there are several mentions of both the poem and K'naslah, all referring back to ancient times. Although no direct evidence has been found to the validity of the poem, it is widely accepted as historical truth.

Spread

The poem of K'naslah is widely known throughout the world. Most children encounter the poem at some point, as a dare to recite it with the risk of summoning the wrath of K'naslah. Although many claims to have successfully summoned K'naslah, no proof of these claims has ever been seen.

Variations & Mutation

Several different versions of the poem exist, but most traces back to various works of fiction, where artistic freedoms have been taken like changing a few words, or in some cases add several more verses to fit a narrative. The version of the poem presented here is believed to be the most accurate one to the original.

Cultural Reception

Every person has their own beliefs about The Poem of K'naslah. Some believe it to simply be a scary poem they encountered as a child, while others refrain from citing it, in fear of unleashing the wrath of K'naslah.
In many cultures and languages, K'naslah is a word loosely used in lieu of evil.

In Literature

Many scary stories and fairy tales quote The Poem of K'naslah or altered versions of it. Whenever someone writes about darkness or evil, there's a good chance it was somehow inspired by The Poem of K'naslah.

Claws and fangs of darkness

In the void you feed

Cast your favor upon us

In this, the hour of need.

Beyond the veil of shadow

You lust for death and decay

A boon to you we offer

Our foe is now your prey.

— Poem of K'naslah