Versos English Eric Mackay ZULALIE.

English poem

ZULALIE.

by (1831–1898)

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I am the sprite That reigns at night, My body is fair for man's delight. I leap and laugh As the wine I quaff, And I am the queen of Astrofelle.

I curse and swear In my demon-lair; I shake wild sunbeams out of my hair. I madden the old, I gladden the bold, And I am the queen of Astrofelle.

Of churchyard stone I have made my throne; My locks are looped with a dead man's bone. Mine eyes are red With the tears I shed, And I am the queen of Astrofelle.

In cities and camps I have lighted my lamps, My kisses are caught by kings and tramps. With rant and revel My hair I dishevel, And I am the queen of Astrofelle.

My kisses are stains, Mine arms are chains, My forehead is fair and false like Cain's. My gain is loss, Mine honour is dross,— And I am the queen of Astrofelle.