Alef (2009 )
For Mezzo Soprano and Piano
Based on three quatrains by : Omar Khayyam
Translated by : Edward Fitzgerald
I must abjure the Balm of Life, I must,
Scared by some After-reckoning taen on trust,
Or lured with Hope of some Diviner Drink,
When the frail Cup is crumbled into Dust!
If but the Vine and Love-abjuring Band
Are in the Prophets Paradise to stand,
Alack, I doubt the Prophets Paradise
Were empty as the hollow of Ones hand.
Oh threats of Hell and Hopes of Paradise!
One thing at least is certain - This Life flies:
One thing is certain and the rest is lies;
The Flower that once is blown for ever dies.