I will wait by the river,

Where the water waxes calm.

The storm will never reach here,

I am safe from harm.

 

And though the song lasts forever,

As sure as I am of sound mind,

I will wait by the river,

Whether deaf or blind.

 

As the Night’s milky tresses,

Are lowered to my hands,

I’ll ignore her caresses,

By the river I stand.

 

And though the stars, they may lift me,

And the moon will wink my name,

I’ll cling to the water,

And wait here all the same.

 

I will wait by the river,

Let it clean me until I glow,

And when time becomes forever,

Into my watery grave I’ll go.