Twice have I seen this fateful scene before.
Second Phantom
The depths are moving, but no waters roar.
A mountain silence clasps the air and sea.
Look through the glassy fathoms far below:
Beneath us glides the ocean’s dizzy floor
Which we skim over with a swallow’s speed.
First Phantom
I see a shadowy shore and precipices.
Yes, this portends my spirit’s earthly woe.
Second Phantom
You shall not shrink! What though your heart shall bleed
Its last drop out walking the abysses,
You must go forth—the hour has struck for you!
The little freedoms of your life are past,
As youth may choose its work or happiness;
Now you must steer the boat through fog and blast.
This rock encircled water is no less
Than your soul captured in the trap of Fate.
Far over stands ’twixt earth and heaven a gate
Where souls depart and enter into Time,
You must set foot upon this shore and climb
And blindly your election make, renew
Your will and spirit.
First Phantom
Tell me what to do?
Second Phantom