The Poetry Corner

Zulalie.

By Eric Mackay

Zulalie. I. 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. II. 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. III. 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. IV. 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. V. 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!