Herne's Son

Stuart McIntyre

For I am the Lord of the Forest

Thrice blessed, raven-coated, horned I stand over my charges,
Watching their peaceful faces in the amber light,
Smiling as they dream their dreams,
Keeping their safety, watching their night.

Many an age I have guarded those who come to me,
Enfolding them to my breast; my servants wait
Silently, hidden, keeping the darkness, And the stillness; I am their fate.

I feel an intruder, wandering into my domain,
I feel his fear, his searching mind and hands,
I feel the stirring deer and owl,
And then, I feel the taint of man.

Soon, they beasts and birds have lured away,
The poacher, but for his pains; I let
Him find a rabbit to fill his pot and
Belly, lest he forget...

...for I am the Lord of the Forest.