I used to find pleasure in simple things --
The first buds of May, Saturn's glorious rings;
And I found Life to be carefree and grand,
But those were the days when Love held my hand;
Then Love said farewell -- O, how my world changed!
Now I stumble through Life like one deranged

How I loathe these dark clouds of solitude
That were not summoned, yet dared to intrude;
And on nights when loneliness claws at the door
I must leave this realm where Love lives no more;
And so I set sail for some distant isles
Where contentment reigns and the face of Love smiles

Upon my return, anguish fills my surround,
And nowhere can sanctuary be found;
A wretchedness once again overtakes    
My very soul. And within me there quakes
A heart that's confused and weary with pain,
And it knows not why it must beat in vain

But the heart must obey the dictums of Fate,
No matter the venue -- Hell's or Heaven's Gate;
Yet, when old memories are gently stirred
Soft murmurs of undying love can be heard;
And in such moments I feel gratitude
For this brief reprieve from my solitude