The New Book of Hymns

Hymn to the Man who Stayed

Eyes of opal, skin of fire yet ice.

This face upon which only I could gaze.

A scribe, a sculptor

Now my first and only lover.

Feet of ice, heart of fire.

Did you stay to see the fruition of your feat?

Did you fear the great beyond?

Or was it me who made you stay that much longer?

Touch of fire, kisses of ice.

Let them not see this visage you hide.

To the nether I will bring your son and your secrets.

For both are yours as much as they are mine.

Tears of ice, embrace of fire.

Pray, do not hold me one moment longer.

But keep me in your heart hereafter.