The Vampire

You that, like a dagger’s thrust, Have entered my complaining heart, You that, stronger than a host Of demons, came, wild yet prepared; Within my mind’s humility You made your bed and your domain; - Infamous one who’s bound to me Like any felon by his chain, Like a gambler by his games, Like the bottle and the sot, Like the worms in one’s remains, - Damm you! Damnation be your lot! I’ve begged the merciful, swift sword To overcome my liberty - To poison I have said the word: Save me from poltroonery. Alas the sword! Alas the poison! Contemptuous, they spoke to m: "You never can deserve remission Of your accursed slavery, "Imbecile! - If our deadly empire Freed you from your present fate, Your kiss would soon resuscitate The cold cadaver of your vampire!"