The Summer Country

Now I lay me down to death,

Soul let loose so mind can rest.

Sing to me, muse, we’ll call down a storm,

Lightning fire to keep me warm.

Under covers of cloud and night,

Drowning in dreams of piercing light,

Visit the place that’s long forgotten –

Endless Summer, now twisted, now broken.

In the throes of youth I’d be me forever.

Fanciful daydream, hopeless endeavor.

Who am I now, that I cannot return?

What has caused my haven to burn?

I held no candle, my hand struck no flame,

Yet in my neglect a trespasser came.

Knowledge was she, and Learning as well,

Face draped and veiled, body a shell.

Caught by false wisdom I followed her lead

And she stole the Summer Country from me.