Once by Larner

Once

I thought

to be laid

’neath rich Shire Earth

when my time should come.

Once

I thought

to wed Pearl

and know wedded bliss

ever at her beloved side.

Once

I danced

with great joy

before all the Shire

at Michel Delving’s Free Fair.

Once

I hoped

to father children,

and hold them close,

and to teach them everything.

Once

I planned

to honor Sam

and love his children

alongside those of my own.

Then

the Ring

came to me

and began Its campaign

to rob me of all.

Now

I leave

the land of

my birth and life.

My joy has fled me.

There,

in Elvenhome

will I find

the peace I lost

under Its dark, fell influence?

Must

I live

and find release

in a strange land

not intended for mere mortals?

Why

do I

not grieve more,

knowing never will I

see my tall brother again?

When

will I

again find the

ability to properly feel

joy and delight once more?

There

beyond the

curtain of rain

perhaps I will know

once again peace and fulfillment.

Sam,

my brother,

do not linger

long past your Rosie.

Let me die at least

once more a proper Shire Hobbit.

Oh,

sweet Creator,

grant me ease,

I beg of you.

Release me from my burden.

Relieve me of pain and loss.

Teach me to sing in joy again.

Text © Larner