The Lamentable Plot of the Trap-Door Lover

I've lived in shadows all my life

To hide my plight,

The hated thing

I dare not bring

Into the light,

-

But she has seen my cursed visage,

My dreaded shame!

It gave her fright

That horrid night,

Though she's to blame!

-

But ah, her voice… like angels' song

That wondrous sound!

Is enough to keep

Her, though she'll weep,

Below the ground.

-

But she would never love me – no

Oh no, not I!

No woman could

Or ever would –

She'd rather die!

-

So, she shall never leave my lair –

Such is her fate

To sing for me

And with me be

And cry, and wait…