For Erika

It’s a weary life, my lady,

And the shadows lengthen so,

We were left in the quiet water

You were caught in the overflow;

Like a raven drawn to the glitter,

Or a moth to the fairy light,

This many a month of winter

Has brought you to mind at night.

 

Your crystal dreams lie shattered

Your hopes have long been slain,

You’re the Queen of your own dominions

In the grounds of your palace - ‘Pain’;

There’s nothing but cold confusion

To take to your bitter bed,

For the words of a distant lover

Lie heavy, when love is dead.

 

But love is a patient healer

And love is our one refrain,

We’ll banish your cold confusion,

We’ll shatter your palace - ‘Pain’;

A friend is a hearth companion

That lives in the heart’s despite,

Take hold of the love we offer

And live in our hearts tonight.

 

David Lewis Paget