Fragments

I am stretched on your grave
and will lie here forever.
If your hands were in mine
I’d be sure we would not sever.
My apple tree, my brightness,
it’s time we were together:
for I smell of the earth
and am worn by the weather.

When my family thinks
that I’m safely in my bed.
Oh, from night until morn
I am stretched out at your head.
Calling out to the air
with tears hot and wild.
For the loss of the girl
that I loved as a child.

Do you remember
the night we were lost
in the shade of the blackthorn
and the chill of the frost?
Thanks be to Jesus
we did what was right
and your maiden head still
is your pillar of light.

Oh, the priests and the friars
they approach me in dread.
Because I still love you
my love and you’re dead.
I still will be your shelter
through rain and through storm
and with you in your cold grave
I cannot sleep warm.

So, I am stretched on your grave
and will lie here forever.
If your hands were in mine
I’d be sure we would not sever.
My apple tree, my brightness,
it’s time we were together:
for I smell of the earth
and am worn by the weather.