The Boatswain and the Maiden

I gaze upon the dawnlight
as Miranda at the shore.
The blue horizon waits,
with a flow gently longing
for the Siren ocean's lure.

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived.

"Oh abide with me a while,
my beautiful blue Boatswain!
The crimson dawn rises,
but aye the pebbled shore clings
and my eyes are not yet open.

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived."

And naught answers the cry
save the gentle, longing flow
This green girl awaits them,
passions deep, fierce and fearless,
and a love she's yet to know.

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived.

"Oh Boatswain please forgive me,
but they say I'm still a maid
and I can't sing these songs
of womanhood and God
'til I give the love I've saved.

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived.

And though I'd gladly give it
into your tender keeping,
you're so far out to sea
and fickle as the tide.
Can't you save me the weeping?"

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived.

I'll hide my love and tend it
'till it finds a worthy home
the Boatswain's left a girl
upon the island shore
but returns and is alone.

I have not loved yet.
I have not loved and have not lived.
But nor have you.