Classic Poem

Villanelle

I HAVE forgotten the kingdom where,
Young in a city of luxury,
I on a time was a lute-player.

Only I know the gods were there
Brooding o'er us goldenly:
But I have forgotten the kingdom where.

I played where led a thoro'fare
In marble fine to the blue sea:
And I was an excellent lute-player.

Ever the early summer air
With flowers and fruits and love all free:
But I have forgotten the kingdom where.

Against this age I struggle and swear:
Pestered and pinned with puritanry:
I who once was a lute-player.

Still in my heart I dream how fair
That other life appeared to me:
But I have forgotten the kingdom where
I on a time was a lute-player.