Mercedes Lackeys "Arafael's Lament"
The sorrow of the elves is they live beyond their time
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
Until the world forgets them, saving tales and rhyme
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
The sorrow of the elves is that all they love must die.
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
Time withers all about them yet the elves it passes by.
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
The sorrow of the elves is they dare not touch a friend.
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
For touching brings a change that magic cannot mend
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
The sorrow of the elves made them seek another place
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
And I alone remain, the last of my lost race
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
Now I alone remain, to mourn and count the cost
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
Of every leaf that fades, and every flower lost
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
Yes, I alone remain, I hold the land that magic made,
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
I can't hold back the dark, and daily see it fade.
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?
The sorrow now is mine through arms when I will heal.
The tree of swords and jewels waits for me.
And how long must I bear the stamp of sorrow's seal!
When shall I hang my own upon the tree?