17 October 2012
This poem was inspired by the story of Absalom from the Bible.
Child of mine, as yet unknown I've made for you a loving home You may come, and stay with me You have my love, eternally . . . Child of mine, as yet unborn Within my womb, you have been formed You may come, and join my heart Though I know that we must part . . . Child of mine, as yet born new I pray for all the best for you You may come, this life to claim While I grow old you will remain . . . Child of mine, as yet still young I hear the words upon your tongue You may come, and share your voice Though you are not your father's choice . . . Child of mine, as yet a man You go to seek a different land You may come, return to home No longer do you need to roam . . . Child of mine, as yet a foe Why do you pain your mother so You may come, but what of me The son is now the enemy . . . Child of mine, as yet my king What made you do this vile thing You may come, but find no peace Until your cursed war does cease . . . Child of mine, as yet un-born Back to the dust from which we're formed You may come, this final time Your life is done and so is mine . . . O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would God that I could die for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!
Absalom • Opuss № I