Even as early as 1974, the poet foresaw that one day the choice would have to be made between the poetry and the totem-muse Psyche.
-----
dance for me, my electric lady.
sing a song that gently soothes my soul.
tomorrow I must leave your world again, my love…
as I strive to reach this endless journey’s goal.
I once gave up my poor and mortal birthright,
so that I might touch the sky and see true things.
my love, I’m not so sure I would have started,
if I could have seen the pain this voyage brings.
once again, my electric lady,
touch me and bring forth my too-rare smile.
for the moment I am just another mortal-
and a little love will last me quite a while.
if we had only met before the present,
and what is gone had made me what I am,
a love would be that all who live might envy-
but I cannot come back this way again.
for the final time, my electric lady…
give me all that I may take within my vow.
tomorrow is my child and a gift to the stars-
and the night is just my brother here and now.
William F. DeVault. all rights reserved.