Ned Rorem 3 Barcarolles

A sea surface scattered with lavender hydrangea petals.

A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc.

Faded Polaroid photos.

Taking a siesta on a rocking chair,

before the tea leaves start sinking.

The pleasant sound of dancing vine plants.

Softness.

Crumpled paper balls resting on a marble tray.

A hint of lemon pepper lingering in the air.

The Black Sea shimmering beneath a moonlit sky.

Thoughts floating above the dark sky.

Cry—

as if you were just born.

Exhale—

as if you were going somewhere else.