PARSIFAL
			(by Paul Verlaine)

arsifal has vanquished the daughters, with their gentle 
Babble and amusing luxuriance; despite delight
Of the flesh that lures the virgin youth, tempts him
To love their swelling breasts and gentle babble;

He has vanquished fair Womankind, of subtle heart,
Her tender arms outstretched and her throat pale;
From harrowing Hell, he now returns triumphant,
Bearing a heavy trophy in his boyish hands,

With the spear that pierced the Saviour's side!
He healed the King, and shall be himself enthroned,
As priest-king of the sacred, vital treasures.
In robe of gold he worships that sign of grace,

The unblemished vessel in which shines the Holy Blood.
-And, o those children's voices singing in the dome!

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