PARSIFAL

IMITATED FROM THE FRENCH OF PAUL VERLAINE.

Conquered the flower maidens, and the wide embrace
Of their round proffered arms that tempt the virgin boy:
Conquered the trickling of their babbling tongues; the coy
Back glances; and the mobile breasts of supple grace.

Conquered the WOMAN BEAUTIFUL; the fatal charm
Of her hot breast; the music of her babbling tongue:
Conquered the gate of Hell; into the gate the young
Man passes, with the heavy trophy at his arm—

The holy javelin that pierced the Heart of God.
He heals the dying king; he sits upon the throne,
King; and high priest of that great gift the living Blood.

In robe of gold the youth adores the glorious Sign
Of the green goblet; worships the mysterious Wine.
And o, the chime of children’s voices in the dome!

                                                                        JOHN GRAY.

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