IX. The Hermit

Step by step into the woods
Oh to dream among the roots
For I know the answer lies within
Putrid smell of fallen leaves
Swiftly brings me to my knees
Whirlpool of narcotic bliss
Pulls me closer for a kiss
Sending shivers 'cross my skin

I'm dreaming in solitude
I'm chasing the truth
The master returns subdued
With newly found youth

Oh how unwise to come here
To step in my domain
I saw you standing with light in your hands
And flew like moth to flame

Begone my foolish wanderer
Make haste while you still can
Before I trap you in my lair
Not to be seen again

This is the magic forest
Of la Belle Dame sans Merci
Men hear my wicked chorus
When it is too late to flee

Closer, deeper
Heed my words
Life still flickers
Love still hurts

Came for answers
Found your death
Count your chances
Lose your breath

Cause the joy for me is in the taking
And I will take what's mine no matter what it costs

Give me your soul
Release control
Come cry, do bleed
Submit

Obey
To stay
I'll even let you see the light of day
No quit

Burn the bridges
Cross the sea
All your ridges
Fitting me

Slowly, answers
Drift ashore
Tonight I'll wear your passion
And nothing more

All your past decisions left your poor heart breaking
And only I can ease the pain and thaw the frost

Give me your soul
Release control
Come cry, do bleed
Submit

Obey
To stay
I'll even let you see the light of day—
No way

Trees here know your heart's desires
Crown the just and kill the liars
Try to see the blurry line
Being free is being mine
Sign the seal on featherbed
We have merged before we've met

Come make me whole
And take control
Bend light, stretch night
Abide

No pain, no shame
The poison ivy slowly crawls its way
Inside

March 29, 2019