Once Kings

In misty dreams and shadowed memories

Of fabled cities I have dwelt apace-

And from strange lakes set round with Guardian Trees

Have slacked my thirst, and scornful of the face

Of harshful reality have stooped to trace

Dark figures on the sands of alien quays.

In crystal splendor I have spanned the seas

And clothed myself in legendary grace...

In Idris I have dwelt where Serpent Stones

And flowers of dusty violet merge to form

A glimmering gate of wonder, whereto bones

Of a warrior dead are gathered in a storm

Of whirling clouds and cauldron flames and roar

Beneath the sky where great ravens …