Song of Winter
Leave me, let me go.
I sail for the bleak North, for the peace of the frozen shore.
Your laughter is untimely, my friends.
You turn my farewell tunes into the welcome song of the Newcomer,
And all things draw me back again into the dancing ring of their hearts.
Song of the Heralds of Spring
Life's spies are we, lurking in ambush everywhere.
We wait to rob you of your last savings of withered hours to scatter them in the wayward winds.
We shall bind you in flower chains where Spring keeps his captives,
For we know you carry your jewels of youth hidden in your grey rags.
(Noon)
[The rear stage is darkened. The band of Youths enters on the main stage. No actual change in the scenery is necessary—this being left to the imagination of the audience.]
Ferryman! Ferryman! Open your door.
Ferryman
What do you want?