12 
AMBERGRIS 
And the sun is sharp to slay ; 
Where the ivory dome above 
Glimmers like the dawn of love 
On the weary way ; 
Where the ibex chant and call 
Over tempest’s funeral ; 
Where the horn’d beast is shrill, 
And the eagle hath its will, 
And the shadows fall 
Sharp and black, till day is passed 
Over to the ocean vast ; 
Where the barren rocks resound 
Only to the rending roar 
Of the shattering streams that pour 
Rocks by ice eternal bound, 
Myriad cascades that crowned 
Once the far resounding throne 
Of the mountain spirits strong, 
All the treacherous souls that throng 
Desolate abodes of stone, 
Barren of all comely things, 
Given to the splendid kings, 
Gloomy state, and glamour dark, 
Swooping jewel-feathered wings, 
Eyes translucent with a spark 
Of the world of fire, that swings 
Gates of adamant below 
Lofty minarets of snow. 
Thence the towering flames arise, 
Where the flashes white and wise 
Find their mortal foe. 
Let us thither, caring not 
Anything, or any more, 
Since the sorrow of our lot 
Craves to pass the abysmal door. 
Never more for us shall twine 
Rosy fingers on the vine. 
Never maiden lips shall cull 
Myriad blossoms beautiful.