RESURRECTION OF THE GODS )M A.MICKI.ESON ;itin;in!!iiiiUiiiiii[i;i!!]i'iii '1 Class TSl5^^ BookjX2.2)34L ISiEZRIGHT DEPOSm RESURRECTION OF THE GODS RESURRECTION OF THE GODS BY DON A. MICKLESON ^■ARTIetVeRl BOSTON THE GORHAM PRESS MCMXVIII $ /,tC(y^ Copyright 1918 by Don A. Mickleson All Rights Reserved MAY -7 ISi8 Made in the United States of America The Gorham Press, Boston, U. S. A. )CIA494930 RESURRECTION OF THE GODS RESURRECTION OF THE GODS A flight of birds of varied form Perched themselves upon a tree — No doubt they thought themselves alone Or they wouldn't have spoken as they did near me. Paralyzed, dumb and stricken with awe I stood In my tunnel and gazed at them For they were birds against nature's law, Having the voices and words of men. I'd been delving the earth In search of wealth Far within a desert land — The birds came there as if In stealth, That queer, uncanny, feathered band. I judged It thus from their actions, sly And the caution, they had in speaking, They looked about both low and high — I thought at first they were sneaking, — • Sneaking about to fill their gizzards With tempting bait from near the tree — Squirrels, perhaps, or maybe llzzards Then (evil omen) I feared 'twas me. For there. In converse with that bevy of fowl^ Blackbird and swan, eagle and crane. Sat a bird of fate, — a great old owl, — Wondered I much whence they came. Now, the fates decree by omens and signs When 111 betides, — to those who are wise 5 Resurrection of the Gods The same today as In olden times And to know them, Is easy, for he who tries. So beholding there that bird of evil That mocks at some w^here 'er they roam, I concluded that he was sent by the devil To supervise stripping me flesh from bone. But, great my relief when at length the crane Began to speak of their mission's aim And Intently I listened for him to explain, — ■ Hoping he'd state when they'd leave again. "Friends," he murmured, in accents low, "In form of birds do we assemble here Lest man may see and learn and know There lives yet the gods they've ceased to fer,; . "In this guise we must seek one Whose heart is free to accept the truth And carry the tidings to every one Assembled here upon the earth." I, standing there with pick and shovel. Hidden within my hidden tunnel. Was filled with amazement, fear and fright- — ■ Realizing, at length, that within my sight Was a legion of gods from a v/orld unknown From whence, as birds, they must have flown. Their object, no doubt, to rule the earth As they ruled it before the Christian birth. Resurrection of the Gods I thought me then of times of yore When the Christ and gods, as never before, Sought to save the souls of men Who prayed for someone to save for them. Be it Christ or gods or norns or elves, The souls — they must needs save themselves. And, concerning which, they'd dream and hope And yet in darkness of it, grope. Rudely was my reverie broken By the words of an eagle, spoken. His voice, like distant thunder boomed; My late, I feared, was sealed and doomed. Such tremors strange, unseemly, queer Shook the world, — as I, with fear — Affrighted I and mutely wondered Whose his words that thusly thundered.^ Who could this in shape of bird be Whose tones, in truth, were quite unworldly.? At length, condemned I much my blindness. When noting with what truth and kindness This god spoke of earth and heaven. How illy man of the good, then given Made it serve the end intended And long ere he, his speech had ended Knew I that the great Thor spoke — • God of storm and thunder bolt. "Our great god Odin, permit me to state — • Ye Gods of all from prison freed — Has wisely spoken of the pitiful state Of mankind now, and their awful need." Resurrectio7i of the Gods "The rulers of men need judges for them — 'Tis plain that they have gone astray From the path intended for them. Fools! Such fools! Have they wandered away. Why is it thus? Why thus, ye gods? What cause brings such calamity? Canst comprehend, ye gods W^hy thus such fools, — humanity?" "Since driven from earth by fate's decree And losing all power o'er the fates of men Tis a sad return, as viewed by we, To behold the tardy progression of men. Truly doth it appear as when Hermod, in hell, our Balder found When men and gods and mountains and plain Wept with grief and shook with fright — When tears were shed like ceaseless rain At losing him, the god of light." "For behold! Where is the joy today? 'Tis dead, I ween, all dead from strife; Mirth is sung in a mirthless lay, Men do not live, — they have but life. " "In place of we gods, hath a great divinity Worshipped by all mankind for ages — Ruled the world as did Odin, Vile and Ve; That trinity of gods, first known to sages." "And whence there sprang this queer religion Devoid of beauty, with greed its fetish Resurrection of the Gods That's made men slaves legion by legion Since fate, from earth, we gods did banish." "But mine eye of prophetic vision Beholds a dawn upon the earth — A dawn that's held by men in derision Being taught it folly, (since the Christian birth) "All hail the day when once again The brave and true alone appears At banquets where we gods shall reign And drink from goblets of Freyja's tears." "'Tis indeed as 'tv/as before We from earth were banished Some are glutted with their store While some are truly famished." " 'Tis strange indeed that we should find, After ages of that fatal sway That severed communion, with us, mankind. To find the evils the same today." "But such is fate, by fate's decree This Christian rule is doomed. We gods again shall truly be By mankind with victory plumed. " "Beauty once again shall rule, Freyja will be honored. All again, to we gods shall pray The wise, as the untutored." lo Resurrection of the Gods So spoke Thor, the god of thunder, Listed I, with awe and wonder, Hearing thus, an eagle speak In truth to me seemed such a freak, That I questioned if my reason Had not indeed committed treason And left me there an empty shell Like a vagabond escaped from hell. Devoid of means of knowing truly Had my mind become unruly. Yet I knew they spoke like sages If perchance through all the ages. As there, before me, they did confess, The fates afforded them redress From a bondage that grieved them sorely In narrow realms devoid of glory, Whence again, they might, their valor try And win allegiance for aye and aye From man, who once served them well — • Till, vainglorious — they sipped of hell, From arrogance quite unbearable Thinking they as gods unconquerable. Their punishment was most justly given By the fates ruling earth and heaven. Resurrection of the Gods 1 1 I was a-weary after a day of toil Yet hoped that, with silence, I might not spoil The novel experience of hearing birds speak, — Each of a kind, — with a different beak. Tho I feared I was crazy and dreaming for sure 'Twas quite beyond me to pass by such a lure. So silently discarding my shovel and pick Laying them down without the least click, I attempted to seat myself on a barrow (The one I used In working my burrow) Tho huge in form, with a m.onstrous frame I'd sat on my barrow again and again And alv/ays it bore my v/elght without murmur, 'Twas firm as a rock and I thought a bit firmer. All made of steel, both hard and tough And meant to withstand hard usage and rough. But nevertheless tho I sat down with ease It smashed with a crash, a moan and a wheeze. For a moment. In anger, I hotly cursed When, In flocked the birds, the great owl first.. Now, thought I, they'll devour me alive Like hornets feasting at a honeybee hive — For a moment they stood as If undecided, I, In terror, their onslaught bided. However, soon, in marched a swan Her plumage shining as silvery dawn 12 Resurrection of the Gods With queenly tread she made approach And with tender voice most sweetly spoke, — Freyja "Fear not, sir mortal. Why shoulds't thou shudder? Why tremble thus? Why for thy reason fear? Know ye not the gods commit no murder, And without good reason cause not a tear? Think ye then we knew not of your presence, Tho, with caution, thou attemptedst to attain Wisdom, with which to win worldly prominence From the words of gods unknown to them — O shame! A shame in truth, that thou should'st giye So little credence to the powers of diyinities And think that so near their presence thou coulds't liye Except 'twere considered by them an expediency. Sir, thou hast heard our conversation, As 'twas willed by we you should For 'tis necessary, we in consultation, (For sake of mankind's good) A Mortal being devoid of prejudice Find, to act as earthly herald And disseminate, without cowardice, To all who dwell upon this world Resurrection of the Gods 13 Those tidings which must needs concern Every dweller upon the earth, Those tidings anent the gods' return Their resurrection, — their second birth. I, dear sir, am Freyja — goddess next to none Goddess I, of love and every brilliant passion And, as the worlds are lighted by the rays of the sun, I, the hearts of men enlighten, — in like fashion. '' Freyja for a moment, inquisitivelv, me regarded I tried in vain to answer her, — fright my speech retarded Until at length sweet Freyja, found for me com- passion And changed herself into a nymph to arouse me to some passion. Her wiles succeeded beyond her hopes, of that I'm sure truly, My tongue at once unloosed itself and became. indeed, unruly. I met her gaze with candor and scanned her face of beauty; "Of all the treasures upon earth, — Fd give quite free of duty, For just one kiss, one love embrace — just a moment's rapture Give all freely, my soul included, if in my arms could capture 14 Resurrection of the Gods Such entrancing winning grace, such glorious lovehness 'Twould make my heart be quite content and extradite all loneliness." Such words I spoke and more, quite aflame with ardor Until visions of possession, my heart began to harbor. And reaching then to clasp the lovely, lovely vision I clasped alone thin, thin air and met Freyja's mild derision. And instead of a nymph of entrancing form Stood Freyja now in garb of swan Tho such creature is to love repellent Her eyes, with humor, gleamed so excellent That chagrin and anger, with kind good grace Took speedy flight from my flushed face While humor, blessed mood contagious, Contracted I, from that of Freyja's. Then kindly did she me reproach For the audacity to thus approach A being quite too divine To be embraced by person, mean as mine. "Forgive me Freyja," with her I pleaded "But surely thou must truly know Resurrection of the Gods 15 Results of deeds are all unheeded At times, by mortals here below. When love Is aroused by beauty divine — Pray tell me, Freyja, it is no sin That man may hope to all entwine Such beauty rare, his arms within. Truly then 'twere little wonder That man with woman's wont to blunder When Freyja, love's most charming goddess Such wiles entrancing does countenance." The Pheasant "In thine ignorance, do not chide Thou foolish mortal, lest ill betide. " Spoke a bird with brilhance vestured While with wing outstretched it gestured Its voice with anger fraught. " Know ye not the norns of evil Require of each and every mortal A payment in tears or anguish of soul For the greatest joys from young and old.^ And all that's good is dearly bought. " Mortal "Thy words indeed cannot be doubted And often here I hear them quoted Yet the reason, — would I fain 1 6 Resurrection of the Gods That thou, a god, to me explain. Why is that that's best for mortal Subject is and unto evil Must a tribute to it pay?" The Pheasant "That that's best for mortal creature Is to him a perfect stranger Naught he knows, the laws concerning, Subject he to vulgar yearning. Reason is to him unknown Harmony's laws and they alone Protect all things from evil's sway." I think that Freyja was inclined To think this god with superior mind Would cause that I, myself, entangle With problems that must end in wrangle And so to stop the useless speaking Explained, — ^"The truth of my seeking Were better made known another day." So powerful in its sweetness Was the voice with which she spoke E'en the gods showed some meekness And as if in slavery's yoke In unison bowed they, each and all Those birds — yet, gods, both great and small And with eagerness awaited what Freyja had to say. Resurrection of the Gods 1 7 She then outlined to me the plan By which, unto my fellowman I'd prove myself of service great In making known the rules of fate. "For," said she, " 'Tis meet that man Learn to live his earthly span According as the stars may say. And he who grieves o'er tasks undone or heeds To murmur o'er his or others good or evil deeds Must pay the price of being left In a darkened world, — of light bereft Until the time so lost in fruitlessness Is doubly spent in grieving penitence At the night, now his, which should be day. And this in part is our earthly mission, — Each god or goddess controls one passion And thus shall we attempt to teach That man may love us, all and each. Tho, loving one more than all the rest, Shall he by that one be most blest No prayer of his be answered — nay. " Mortal Ah! then Freyja — goddess of the passion supreme Tell me: wilt thou, when once more you reign. Inspire the hearts of women with that love divine That in days of yore — , as if drunk with wine — The hearts of kings and noblest lords Thrilled with joy when at their boards Resurrection of the Gods Lovely women smiled their pleasure And asking aught in slightest measure Were granted all their hearts desire E'en tho their lord must brave hell-fire? Wilt thou, Freyja, beauteous soul divine Lend thine aid, lest hearts repine And die loveless for lack of nurture And kindly aid from thou, the teacher. Doubt I not your power, for, had it been less How, throughout all the centuries Could'st thine teachings be remembered? For even today rare love is rendered. Yet I fear me 'tis on the wane For lover oft is called insane By women, who their suit disdain Unless perchance by right they claim That which gilds all hearts today And brands e'en brutes as of superior clay. Riches, Freyja, or likewise their dearth Hath near replaced thy power on earth Or submerged it in a depth of sin To satisfy vainglorious whim." Freyja Sir, I thank thee. But a mortal Thy kind words I shall heed. In truth, my heart, as tho 'twere mortal In anguish does most truly bleed To know that that most priceless treasure Resurrection of the Gods 19 Bequeathed by me to lovely woman Is now replaced by meaner pleasure And does not mold their hearts, or govern. Tell me more of thy knowledge, pray. What the cause .^ Why this decline.^ — • Riches, thou sayest, doth replace today Passionate love — divinest of all things divine.^ Mortal Freyja, thy pardon do I humbly seek, But ere I can with ardor speak I pray thee, change thy unseemly garb. In truth I find the task too hard Trying thus my speech upon That which seems to me a swan. Truly, Freyja, thou dost not fear To me, in human form appear? And then, indeed thou would'st embolden Me, perchance to words quite golden. Words, I trust, might cheer and charm thee And, knowest thou, I could not harm thee. There's a vision now within my mind Concerning the beauty that must be thine And could I, Freyja, a moment view it, Tho death reward me I should not rue it. Freyja ."Thou, a gallant art in truth But list thee sir, lend thine ear, 'Twould ill become one of thy youth 20 Resurrection of the Gods To suffer the curse thou now shalt hear. — In ages gone, when last I reigned, A mortal, who, with me in converse. Who, my counsel quite disdained, Bade me appear and pronounce my curse, A curse more terrible, he found to bear Than the curse upon the wandering Jew A curse, dear sir, that you should fear As the worst the fates could proffer you. The Curse ''He who looks on Freyja's form , In torment on this earth shall dwell For aye and aye shall that one mourn As does a soul that's lost in hell. For ages and ages shall he roam the earth Seeking for that that's not for him, — Seeking from those of noble birth And from those that are born in sin A kindly word from a woman kind, A glance, with love, for himself alone. Finding it not, 'twill torment his mind, Thus accursed shall he roam and roam." Mortal "Tho disciple am I of Freyja's My heart is not enough courageous Thy curse to attempt enduring Resurrection of the Gods 21 How-so-e'er Its cause be so alluring For a life of shortest term Knows how anguish, — the heart can burn, Knows the heart to ashes turns When unslaked It yearns and yearns — • Yearns for that It can't attain As does for freedom — he In chain And since thy face I cannot gaze upon Except as nymph or In form of swan My words, I fear me, may seem cold For I may speak, not of love, but gold. Gold It Is O Freyja, goddess thou of love, Gold replaces all things — even the gods above. Gold will melt the hearts of misses For gold, the youth, old woman kisses. Naught else on earth could make them do It Tho know they well for life they'll rue It. " The Eagle "Hearest thou, ye gods, what says this earthly man.^ Does not his words demand that we more hastily plan.?" The Raven "Aye! with this, his confirmation. Let us dis- cover more — Whence this abomination that makes our heart so grievous sore." 22 Resurrection of the Gods The Pheasant "E'en the Christ, a greater god than we, Hath proven the futiHty Of battle against that sorcerer — • That scourging, unscrupulous monster — Who, with satan and all his devils For amusement in their revels — • Play with the meaner passions of men And gleefully applaud as they subject them To sacrifice on mammon's throne That, by right, we gods should own. " Freyja "What wilt thou then — Shall not we now disperse, Explore at once the lives of men And show this mortal the universe?" The Eagle "Freyja thou hast spoken well — Each god unto his labor go Hasten the time when man shall dwell And commune with gods as of long ago." Freyja "Mortal," spoke sweet Freyja, with her golden ringing voice "Desirest thou to visit, and with other gods con- verse. Resurrection of the Gods Seekest thou that knowledge granted no other man, Would'st thou see the homes of gods, and Pluto's shores scan? Mortal "If thou wilt aid me, the swift Pegasus to ride And with me, in thy splendor, to realms unknown be guide Whilst thus thy realms, engaged surveying— I pledge myself quite all obeying. Follow thee I will for ages, Trusting thus to meet the sages Who, their knowledge, did disperse So scant throughout the universe. And gain, from souls whose eyes, have scanned The worlds of gods as the world of man Some gleam of light To pierce the night So all enveloping Man — just developing. " Freyja "Come! Mount ye then Pegasus, Steed of quaintest fancy On him sail the universe And behold the sights entrancing. But ere that steed thou mayest mount Your soul from body must depart. 24 Resurrection of the Gods No dross as it may soar aloft To realms wherein it hath no part." Mortal "Freyja, Let me then away A soul on earth today Does but the body hamper And to it is a damper Quenching all the fires Of mortal's mean desires, The which must burn on earth Or prove the victim since his birth Unfitted for the strife Through all his life To win the laurels oft bequeathed To those of meaner worth." The Flight to Nether World Quite then, on the instant My soul was wafted high. (Surely it was pleasant Thus for one to die.) Through such a space we journeyed, Quite beyond a mortal's conception — And when at last it was ended Met we a strange reception. We stood on a world of chaos — Beside us, he who ruled. A feast was spread before us Which was, to me, unschooled, Resurrection of the Gods 25 A strange o'er-solid substance For gods and mortal spirits, Requiring for their sustenance Naught that a mortal merits — For there before us were savory meats Of various earthly creatures But high above were placed our seats The food quite beyond our reaching. The god of chaos made a fire While we a seat, each mounted. He stacked the food up high — yet higher And with spices did anoint it. Beneath the meat and bread and wine He placed a furnace, blazing — The odors were so rare, so fine And to my soul so bracing That, then I comprehended Why the gods did all require Their food with spices blended And sent to them by fire. Chaos "Our mission now to the human race Is to teach to them the glories that may be theirs. We gods once dwelt upon the world's face And one achieved his godship there. Seek ye into history. The record still is found. I speak of he called Agamemnon, whose valor none may doubt, 26 Resurrection of the Gods His bones, with greatest care, were covered in a mound In the land called 'Mycenae,' where e'en now they are found out. Know ye well the ills of men And the miseries that are theirs How love supreme's unknown to them And they're weighted down with care. Their minds so sordid, do but dwell On things that do their souls ensnare For even the Imps who dwell In hell For such sordid things do never care. Thy teachers teach unto all mankind Of ways to peace that are brutal For to the paths of peace, all are blind And their teachings foolish and futile. For do not they, with words of praise Bless the poor and wretched Telling them of the future days When, by God, they'll be protected .^^ They tell them of the gold In store And the palaces built for them But forget to tell that nevermore Will they require either bread or gem. The while they line their clothes with silk And drink of the best of wine — The most of their wealth from the poor filch Yet call themselves divine." Resurrection of the Gods 27 Mortal "Surely Chaos, if that's thy name, A god, as thou, must surely know I'm seeking not such preachments lame But long for greater things to know." So I spoke, my temper rising, 'Twas quite beyond all my surmising That a god, could thus indulge Such vagrant news — no greater wit divulge. "We mortals know, and have for ages That what you say Is true, But seek I now to learn of sages And gods of vv^Isdom, as are you — Whence we came — I'd solve the question Concerning man and all creatures' birth. If made by God in all perfection And sent by Him to rule the earth, Did men to depths so low, so mean Fall from their exalted place That all semblance of Godly mien Was eradicated from their face.^ Was it thus.? — Do not facts reveal That man arose from bestial haunts And through ages of woe and weal Achieve that face he flouts Proclaiming It the work of God.^* Truly then 'twere tedious, slow And, to me, the process odd That one so mighty should such pace, go." 28 Resurrection of the Gods Chaos "That thou seekest thou canst not know Until allegiance dost thou sever With that earth so far below Tho thou seekest ever and ever." Freyja "Hark thee, Chaos, ('tis a mission) The gods assembled have ordained That this mortal gain admission To oiir realms and thus explain To fellow-creatures on the earth Why the gods of ancient lore Were at time of the great Christ's birth Condemned by man forevermore. " Chaos " 'Tis well, perhaps then, with discretion, That thou viewest for a time The beginning, yet not the completion Of the works so called divine." Saying which; from Freyja, we parted While I, by Chaos, was escorted To a point from whence could we view the passing Of myriads of sparks and meteors flashing And fragments of earth and iron and stone From which was Chaos building a home. By a force of attraction I could not comprehend When reaching a point did the fragments descend Resurrection of the Gods 29 And attach themselves like clusters of bees Swarming the air and alighting on trees — Attach themselves near where we stood I, a-watching in panic mood. For here was a mountain growing higher and higher Being builded of earth and iron and fire Which quaked and hissed and seethed and roared And moaned and groaned as 'twere hell's horde. From whence we viewed a lake of slime Of which he'd mentioned at a prior time, And therein writhed a monster shape Neither fish, mammal, bird or snake But a writhing mass of minutest creatures Devoid of form or head or features. A mass that struggled and writhed and swarmed Struggled against cold or being too warm While some, — cementing with slime and scum Was the nucleus of skin, for the mass begun. Each chilly breath or warmer blast Kept changing a part of the slimy mass Until, — by Chaos was I informed — A skin about the whole was formed And then the battle ensued inside Those creatures next the monster's hide Adhered to it and furnished That by which it could be nourished. Thus the skin was kept alive And just within it did there thrive Another casing that must needs Upon its fellows — inward — feed. So the mass at last compact 30 Resurrection of the Gods Became a monster in name and fact. At first would just an opening be Nor head, nor eye, nor limb have he And feed itself on slime and moss Until with one it met with loss. Thence other means must Chaos supply- Whereby the monster may not die — Mayhap an eye or something akin A sensitive spot upon the skin — ■ And so on thus develop for ages Wiser growing at successive stages. Small or great, they grow indeed As best befits their every need." Now that I knew whence the creation of brutes Sought I to learn beyond all disputes If the source could be the same For the immortal spirits of men. So I insisted that Chaos should tell me And tho he frowned at me most severely At last condescended to me, to explain How first did man a spirit attain. Chaos "When men were but brutes and could not con- verse Naught of the spirit controlling the universe Possessed he then more than apes do today For know ye, — two forces are extant alway. Resurrection of the Gods 3 1 One Is creative and by man called good The other destructive and for evil has stood. Contend they each against the other At times one wins, at times the other. And when the first ape man, spoke his first word He called the good force and the good force heard. He partook in that instant of the force creative — The first soul was born to the first hairy native. After ages and ages of soul cultivation Ages and ages before civilization A soul was born that outshone the rest And spoke to a man in the flesh yet dressed, The man sorely fearful told his tribe — A council was called to name and decide What it could be,- — this voice from the air And the council was of men who still wore hair. And around a fire in a rock hewn cave In whispers and fearful, with faces grave Filled with wonder and perplexed full sore They pondered the question a month or more. Finally deciding to call the name 'God,' The word was simple, their language too, hence nothing odd. When still more ages and ages passed by And more souls lived when their bodies would die 32 Resurrection of the Gods And members returned to speak to a friend Even yet mankind, could not comprehend Whence the origin of the ethereal spirits And called them all gods regardless of merits. But some of those spirits with strength to return Came back to the earth because they did yearn To win themselves glory or some sort of praise. From man they had known in their earthly days. And only succeeded in confusing their friends By odd demonstrations that none dared condemn. For only those souls that are great and yet meek Possess that power by which they may speak. And of this latter class who progress and progress (From that source only) no greater, no less, Have all the gods who are known to men — From that source only did the gods all ascend." Curtly then did Chaos refuse More of his realm or works to disclose. Little I heeded the refusal, however For the sights I beheld could appeal to me never. And anxious was I to return once more To she who guided the way to the shore Of the world half built and growing, For she alone was worth the knowing Of all immortals thus far met In guise of bird either white or jet. Again I mounted old Pegasus, — ■ Chaos drove two winged rodents— Resurrection of the Gods 33 Away we flew through ethereal vastness And worlds were passed in moments. Through space we fled to Urder Font That place of meeting, high Where the gods of ancient days were wont Their laws to make and ply. While traveling thence, we rested At a place called, "Mimers Plain." And for a moment was I invested With the eyes of immortal and O, wondrous sights beheld I, With fearful apprehension Ghostly figures passing by Their numbers past comprehension. In the distance, I also saw The home of the gods of the south United now by solemn vow With the gods who rule the north. Chaos gave the pass word and but a moment were we retarded In passing o'er "Bi Frost" by G. safely guarded. At last we reached the banquet hall where Freyja had gone before us A place of lavish splendor, where sang an angel chorus. The place of tinted glass was made, The floor a crimson red. The walls were quite transparent. Blue, the tint o'erhead Wherein was mirrored scenes of present and of past Changing ever changing, each epoch grandly cast 34 Resurrection of the Gods Beyond all human power to describe by pen or brush In nebulous waves, ethereal, the worlds passed in a rush. They; the photogravers — concentrated In the sky Revealed In slightest detail events to the gods on high. I, a mortal spirit, gazed thereon In rapture And beheld the deeds of valorous kings and other mortal creatures When passed the stories of gods and of worlds there depicted Those doubts to which I had ever been addicted Departed at once from my doubting soul When forced to review my own life's scroll. For before me there, like an earthly "movie film" I viewed my life In the earthly realm, — • The place wherein I first saw light And the deeds I'd done throughout my life. Thereon was traced my every act And compelled me to face the unhappy fact That my life had been one full of shame Yet that which caused me the greater pain Was the fact that I knew that my hosts knew well That my visiting place should have been In hell, And the pictures had proven, as all may perceive. The uselessness of trying, the gods to deceive. Resurrection of the Gods 35 The deeds of each and their actions all The vile, the good, the great, the small Were here, indehbly imprinted forever On waves ethereal, carried thither — ■ And by that record, so the judges decide, Each mortal, by it, impartially tried. While engaged these scenes reviewing Chaos returned and inquired if I Would join in the banquet of welcome Heralding Freyja's return to the sky. The feast was truly a strange, strange sort Arranged upon a lengthy board Prepared, I learned, by Chaos' consort A sort of tea for her friendly horde — ■ Thus to honor upon her visit That goddess from the earth returned — • Who loved in manner so exquisite Is, throughout the universe of worlds. Instead of meats, and fruits of tree and vine Was the banquet board laden With ambrosial foods for gods divine And immortal glorious ladies Tho scant indeed the quantity The board with food supplied. 'Twas of that strange quality That immortal life supplied. The dishes from gold were cast The purest ever known, The table of crystal glass With diamonds and rubies shone. 36 Resurrection of the Gods The food of daintiest flavor. Seasoned with rarest spices Called to each his neighbor's favor And resembled earthly ices. A single dish and a single spoon, A single goblet of nectar Was given to each — from the king of the moon- All down the line to Hector. In joyous mood the gods conversed And beamed upon some mistress, While I — myself quite secretly cursed — My eyes caused the distress; For brilliant wit there was galore And sweet the silvery laughter. But not a face could I see more Than I could see the laughter. Chaos tried, indeed, to cheer me Freyja, too, was kind But mortal eyes yet were with me Sightless to forms divine. Dimly, tho, could I see outlined The ghostly figures near me As each one sipped his nectared wine Loved by them most dearly. Freyja, now in garb, her own Her swanly garb discarded Was quaintly questioned of my home — With curious eyes was I regarded — For be It known, all gods were free But some were loth to leave Resurrection of the Gods 37 The home of their nativity Lest finding cause to grieve. Hector, now ordained a god, (Hero of the Trojan war) Asked a question most truly odd And wished to know how far 'Twixt Greece and Crete Or if 'twere many leagues from Troy That first did Freyja meet A mortal whom she'd employ As dispenser of the tidings Concerning they, her mates. At last, loosed from hiding As decreed by the fates. And Helen, too — her sins repented. And for whom great Hector fought; So charmed the gods that they relented, Those gods who 'gainst her wrought, With power great but useless — And now admitted to their halls The one time great adultress To adorn their board or lead at balls. She questioned Freyja concerning Greece And still was worldly vain She wished to know concerning feasts And if fashions were yet the same.^ The feast at length was ended — The last allowed to me — 38 Resurrection of the Gods Because such food with souls so blended That three, made a divinity. So, at least, I was by Freyja told While our journey we continued. She now garbed as an eagle bold I, upon Pegasus pinioned. We soared now to Jotenheim And viewed in giant land The giants: — rude as in olden times An uncouth monster band. A moment sufficed for inspection Of a race of unlettered creatures Devoid of all godly perfection Weirdly strange in all their features. Their homes were still within great caves. Unshapely were their garments; Their food, they ate, with wooden staves, And often they ate "varmints." Passing thence we proceeded To where imprisoned spirits dwell, — All anguished cries of theirs unheeded, — • That awful land called Hell. There I saw a monster great, Like none I'd before beheld. 'Twas labeled Love, but beamed with hate ' And 'gainst meeting it my soul rebelled. 'Twas the personification (in form of snake) Of earthly monster known as Creed. There was Creed upon a throne Resurrection of the Gods 39 In those infernal regions And seemed, indeed, she quite at home Commanding slaves by legions. Worshiping there, that monster of slime, Were myriads of priests from every clime, — Priests who'd robbed poor widows gaily Of their tear stained copper pennies. Who, if perchance a penny fail them They'd at once condemn the many And tell them of that torrid region Where they are wont to go — Where satan, with his horrid legions In fiery pits, their souls would stow. On earth their coats were of many hues Of costly silks and laces. Diamond studded were their shoes When appearing in public places. But now, alas! the clothes they wore. And must for ages yet, l^ook like unto some hardware Store's display advertisement. Of a million pennies all tied together That weigh a ton or two Their coats are made and will last forever Yet they pray to wear them through. Tearful of eye and with tangled hair Were myriads and myriads of women, there Some sad eyed and tearful and moaning Hearts enhungered, praying and yearning While some of their sisters in woe 40 Resurrection of the Gods With hate and with anger aglow, Their hearts as hard in hell's great gloom As were they when they caused their doom. While passing o'er the motley throng Beheld I one I'd known for long — Long had I known her in that former state And wondered I much at this, — her fate. Curious to learn, I sought information Of the keeper of the book labeled "Damnation." There was her name in ink of red "Written with blood," so the keeper said. The blood of a heart so grievous sore It furnished that blood and could bleed no more. Beneath the name of her, once revered. Were written the charges 'gainst her preferred. "A craven at heart, with a witching smile She sent to the scaifold her lover — beguiled — Beguiled by her into a dream of bliss — The dream of one forbidden kiss. The kiss enraptured, she freely gave But, alas! false honor would she save. Reckless of grief to her lover, or shame. Falsely seeking a virtuous fame Decried she, him unto her lord (Deceived and jealous country bard) As ravisher of virtue and low and base Too mean to dwell amid the race. Inflamed with passion, devoid of reason. Discerning not the woman's liaison A mob of fools, all false of justice Proclaiming each, himself quite lustless Enthronged the place and round and round Resurrection of the Gods 41 The hapless lover with cords was bound. With the scythe of death was he then smitten A sacrifice to the law, "Unwritten." Thus was she enthroned upon A pinnacle of fame and won renown With which, and a face of masked deceit. She her sins did oft repeat. " Now— in hell, — her soul hypnotized ^ By satan, the prince and father of lies. ■ She's made to see with her distorted mind Her lovers pass by in continuous line. Hails she each with despairing wail And wonders and wonders why now they iai To comfort her there in hell's gloomy shade. For one by one they approach and fade SmiUng a smile in derision and glee Gloating, she thinks, o'er her misery. Thus she's doomed for ages yet. Her soul to hunger in hell's black jet, Ever hoping, calling, crying _ For comfort, for love, undymg, undying. A single love, by her once despised Is that for which she cries and cries. The sights so sad near rended my brain And begged I of Freyja to return again Unto the earth once so despised But which now seemed near a paradise Beside those depths of misery and gloom Where evil man must meet his doom. Freyja, however, tho generally kind To lead me home, resolutely declined 42 Resurrection of the Gods Until — she explained — leading the way O'er legions of souls all filled with dismay. Haunted with visions of passion's regrets, And the tormenting dreams that evil begets — Until I beheld the torture in store For such of mankind as are wont to ignore The God-given counsels delivered to man To aid in lengthening his life's short span. Onward and onward we sailed through the murk In which, it seemed, vile devils lurked, Until, at length, we arrived at a glen Set apart by Satan for vicious men — Men born to lust — unconscionable brutes Who pay for their crimes by eating crime's fruits. Therein I saw a man of deceit Known on earth to be a cheat Yet so adept at hiding his liaisons He was deemed a Beau Brummel by maids of all fashion. King of good fellows and winner of hearts Cupid used him for sailing his darts. Thus, in league, did the deceitful twain Wound maidens by score so true was their aim. Mocking with laughter at the havoc wrought. The promises made and at once forgot. He sailed his life's craft on a river of glee And merrily maimed souls of sweet virginity. But the misery on earth all caused by him Is classed, in hell, as an unpardonable sin. And the torture he suffers is much the same As that endured by she of 111 fame. The murderess of a heart as true as gold, Slain because her sins, he ne'er told. Resurrection of the Gods 43 In gay attire and with happy mien Passing by in an endless train — • Or, so there are in his imagination Distorted to further his condemnation, — Damsels of beauty and rarest grace Passing through this most hideous place — Passing near him and he thinks, Alas! As each appears she'll be the last. In anguish then, — in agonized terror He pleads for release from the awful horror Of remaining alone with his darksome dreams For the endless years and then endless aeons To suffer alive tho seemingly dead According to the sentence by Satan read. Those souls who'd sinned in less degree Were appointed to places of less misery. Some suffered only imprisonment Devoid alone of freedom's enjoyment. Some of these groups were laughable sights And, tho sad for them, did I laugh at their plight. A group of rhymsters I pitied but smiled at When beholding the torments they seemed to be roiled at. Satan knew well of their many delusions And delighted in reading their foolish effusions. And hear them chide each one the other For the miserable jingles they had gotten together. He'd also placed them in a barren expanse Where nothing of beauty could their enjoyment enhance But nevertheless they'd write and they'd scribble 44 Resurrection of the Gods Praising the beauty about them with dribble. They imagined themselves in flowery dells Listening, enraptured, at the chiming of bells From the steeples of churches of beauty and grandeur Where with some loved one it pleased them to wander. Or mayhap they'd dream of a rainbow near Whereon was seated, from an unknown sphere, Some idyllic creature, who'd beckon them nigh And plead for their love — "without which they would die." Then would old Satan enjoy seeing their shame By causing, a moment, their minds to be sane. Some would then find themselves attempting to climb A non-extant rainbow, while others would find Their loves and the churches and chiming church bells To be but delusions of rhymsters in hell. 'Twas the last place, by Freyja's decree That she, in hell would show to me; And as we sailed to worlds above My mind, with vexing questions strove. Freyja, however, discerning my strife Concerning hell and death and life Proceeded to raise the dark clouds of doubt That encompassed my soul all round about And told me of mysteries undreamed before Of days to come and of days of yore. The cause and result of the actions of men Rei urrection of the Go ds 45 Of nations and worlds through space without end. She told me why the gods must rule And plant, on earth, that ancient school For which men long, to fill the void Caused through worship of a single God. And for this reason — 'yet not it alone — ■ The gods again seek to enthrone Each himself above the earth Thus to guard, e'en from birth Each mortal. According to the hour and day Will determine which of the gods shall sway That mortal's footsteps throughout his life — Whether a road of ease or a path of strife. 'Tis a law upon truth founded Tho too seldom here expounded — That when mortal's first breath's taken And to forces near does waken To harmony's laws does he respond And in that instant his future's found." From the land of misery and shame, From the land of sin and pain, We swiftly together sped Through clouds of mist and rain Upward and upward again Swiftly to earth we fled. The sight was a joy to the senses, (Hell has its recompenses) For now the earth seemed to me dearer. I longed with a longing of love As I gazed at it far, far above To embrace it, — The earth — oncenothing drearier. 46 Resurrection of the Gods Those realms wherein the gods held sway too frigid were Hela's home too much sorrow held too much woe and fear No longer had I desire within such realms to roam. The giants too uncouthly were and caused too great distress For one to eat of their wretched food or share alike their dress. Happiness welled within me when viewing my home sweet home. In a forest of the northland — a forest dark as night — There is where we rested when at last we ceased our flight. Questioned I then of Freyja — What could her object be. Her answer was surprising — to me, an earthly man. Said she, ^Tll introduce you to dear old Piper Pan Who dwells within the forest yet whom mortals fail to see." Straightway then she signaled to a moth of brilliant hue Daintily sipping honey from a flower damp with dew. And bade it with a gesture to bring at once its mistress. Resurrection of the Gods 47 In just an instant more, to my great amaze, A nymph stood there beside me, — my mind was in a haze. In vain for speech I struggled — my wits were in distress. 'Twas the self same nymph I met before I with Freyja, aloft did soar. Her beauty all too glorious to be by pen described And think I, none could paint it, tho for ages tried. Not alone her beauty that filled my soul with pleasure Her grace and charm of manner were yet the greater treasure. Her eyes of soothing blackness, like rippling pools at night Were wells of power and mystery, and I'd tremble with delight When gazing in their depths and gain but just a glimpse Of wisdom hidden there and also mischief imps. For a moment too I wondered anent the queer sensations — It seemed my flesh had clothed me and I felt my heart's pulsations. The nymph also seemed human rather than a wraith And Pan, — when he appeared — I swear by my faith— His hairy legs and cloven feet and likewise too his horns 48 Resurrection of the Gods Were very like a creature's of earthly creature born. And turning then to Freyja to seek an explanation I found that she'd deserted (to my consternation) The nymph however perceived The thoughts that kept me grieved And explained it was the nature Of gods, like earthly creature, (Or those of lesser birth) To be as men of earth. She also said I well might doubt I, to be, my flesh without. Very soon indeed, was I made to feel at ease With dear old Pan the Piper and his my nymph of the trees. And immediately was taken to a dreamland place of joy Where first, v/as I made acquainted with little Cupid boy. Ever alert for mischief with bow and arrow too E'er I was aware he'd pierced me through and through. The pain and the pleasure alternate so nearly equalized Bereft me of my senses and my speech was paralyzed. Then Hke a slave did I submit to this nymphian sorceress Who proved herself, like all her sex, a first class torturess. Resurrection of the Gods 49 With a string of promise unto the arrow tied Whose barb found lodgment and a safety place to hide Within my heart — I'd vainly thought was ada- mant Until the nymph attached the string, then — vanished my contentment 1 From Cupid's bower she led me round and round Lashed unto her fateful string as tho some poor hound. Into a garden of fruits of various and many sizes Wandered we together where I met with strange surprises. When beside the nearest tree, with fruit mis- shapen, laden. The nymph unloosed the string of promise and left me free as Adam. I thought perchance the fruit might bring me better luck And on tiptoes did I reach out, a single one to pluck. I grasped it tightly in my hand and wondered — shall I eat it.? The nymph then nodded her consent and said, — "Perhaps you need it." I wondered at the mischief imps dancing in her eyes And when I'd bitten into it imagine my surprise — The peel as tough as rubber was filled with bitter gall 50 Resurrection of the Gods It strangled me near unto death — I thought I'd surely fall. When at last I breathed again — of the tree I asked about "Why, dear sir," the nymph replied, "that's the tree of doubt." Just then from out the tree, uncannily, these words were spoken "Thou art a very foolish fellow and by that very token Unless thou cease To spoil thy peace And permit love's spell to be by doubting broken Thou shalt the sport of fickle fortune be forever. And tho thou seekest e'en for ages, shalt thou never Know love's sweet joy But Instead a base alloy A counterfeit of Satan's and sting unknown to Cupid's quiver." "Aye, O well!" I murmured In distress, "Knew I not the road was thus, Yet, however, would I discover More anent the lot of lover Thus to warn quixotic man 'Gainst the nymphs of Piper Pan." Ere the words had left my lips I knew I'd spoken quite amiss Her eyes, In haughty scorn, flashed to me a danger. Resurrection of the Gods 5 ^ Quickly then sought I, to mollify her anger. With speech most gentle forsooth I sought, her temper, to soothe. I told her 'twas but just a jest and nothing pleased me so As did, it thus, to roam with her and prayed that we might go And search for some adventure, to while away the time. To this did she assent and it seemed to ease her mind. She then took up the string of promise to which she kept me tied Naught, could I, but follow her, no matter how I tried. She led me then adown a walk (a narrow little lane) Adorned one side with booths, some of which were plain And some of rich design on either side were stand- ing. One of these we entered, the sights were so com- manding ^ It almost made me dizzy to view such glorious splendor. "And," thought I, "Old Pan is rich, likewise a lavish spender." For here enclosed from every land and every clime Were growing fruits and flowers from every tree and vine. 52 Resurrection of the Gods Clustered about in merry mood were many tiny groups Of nymphs of rarest beauty with escorts eating fruits. In the midst of this rare scene was a group of dancers swaying To those weird rhythmic strains of music that old Piper Pan was playing. The floor on which their feet were patting Was a sheet of gold soft as matting, Yet withal 'twas sufficiently firm To glide upon, and made me yearn To join the throng of dancers. But the dance to me was entirely new And lacked I grace sufficient too; So stood aside And watched them glide — Conscious of their glances. Straightway thence to a booth called Regret The nymph led me, where, in a mirror, I met The distorted features of my soul in remorse For things longed for yet forever lost. A sight indeed to create disgust The sight of my soul writhing in dust Ashamed to acknowledge (tho knowing well) Its own sheer follies drove it to this hell. Resurrection of the Gods 53 A heil of torment, caused through fear, — The fear to claim all it held dear And grasp as was its God-given right, Those things which make a day of night. While viewing myself thus distorted An awful voice from the mirror shouted, — • "Behold thou, mortal, the distress and despair Bequeathed to one who did not dare — Dared not grasp the best on earth Which, by right, is his since birth But yet was squandered and left to he, — He who dares and wills that good must be. See not thou the nymph who leads thee Carest not that she were thine .^ Why submit to this her tyranny Aimlessly led as one quite blind .^" Berated I then myself a fool To be led about with a string and dart Quite as tho an inanimate tool Yet — , how could I free my stricken heart .^ It ached with pain which yet was joy. For fateful promise which led me on Fused the pain to a pleasant alloy And bade forebodings all, begone. And so, fascinated and enraptured I followed whithersoever she led me 54 Resurrection of the Gods Knowing quite well that my soul was captured And I questioned myself,^ — "Would she wed me?" While thusly engaged at surmising And dreaming sweet dreams of the future We stopped at a tree of the devil's devising Which required life's blood for its nurture. 'Twas a tree most heavily laden With a fruit of great beauty and splendor And all who passed by it were bidden By a voice most charming and tender To partake of the fruit of dear Hope So luscious and sweet to behold But which to the taste is as rope — Disappointing to both young and old. Questioned I, then my fair captor Sought I, to learn of her why, Man must be an adapter To circumstance until he die? "Why do his dreams turn to ashes? Why is his end but despair? What is It crosses his wishes? Why does Hope's fruit seem so fair?" "Not by word did she answer me But hand in hand we forward went Unto a knarled and unkept tree Labeled most vividly — Ill-content. Resurrrtion of the Gods 55 A voice then whispered from within its branches " Partake of the fruit so dear to man Unlovely indeed, yet the taste entrances As does none other in the garden of Pan." 'Twas a luscious fruit, tho yet unsightly And as I ate, still more I craved Guessed I then (I think quite rightly) Discontent, is that which makes man most en- slaved. Enslaved is man thro discontent And e'en tho hope is realized Discontent cries, "Illusionment, " And so all joys are mimimized. The nymph then looked so wistfully — I wondered why 'twas so Until I found her telling me 'Twas time that I should go. Said she, "'Tis seldom that we meet with mortals here And I long to have you with us and talk to you and hear About the world wherein you dwell throughout your life's span For know you I am prisoner unto great Piper Pan. "Not that he mistreats me that fain would I go But often I grow weary with the pomp of things you know. 56 Resurrection of the Gods 7\nd long to feel the thrill of mortal beings' warmth Such as I have noted they all possess on earth. *' Ah! such is the glory of the happiness they know (The burning kiss of passion 'twixt two lovers true) That I've often sought to leave my decorous realms of grandeur And become a mortal creature with e'en their lack of polished manner. "For here, tho gay," she continued pensively and languid, Her voice athrill with emotion until it slightly trembled "Our joys are too ethereal and lack the human heart So filled with joy and tenderness and Oh! Oh! the warmth, — "The warmth of burning pleasure such as I have seen 'Twixt lovers true, hidden from their kind within the forest sheen But, Ah me!" exclaimed she, her voice full of sadness, "Pan refuses me permission and says my hopes are madness." Then I told her of my sorrow thus to see her mourn Gently pleading that I aid her to leave her prison home. Resurrection of the Gods 57 I begged her to flee with me and declared to her my love And boasted too, I feared not e'en the gods above. Tho I'm sure my heart v/as quaking, boasting thus to her Whom I was sure knew the gods filled me with fear. However, I continued, and most passionately pleaded Telling her 'twas courage only that she needed. Yet I feared her knowledge of mortal man was meagre Thus to praise them for their joys with such un- bounded eager So I told her of their sorrows — How they love and hate How their love is but seemly and that it, of which they prate Is but a cloak for hiding devious ways for gaining In a manner lawful (because devoid of maiming) Those things they covet mostly — that belong unto a brother Nor is there aught that's sacred 'twixt one another. They prate of love for Christ, I said, and teach that his plan Is the first and only one for each and every man Yet, because one prays at eve while his brother prays at morn 58 Resurrction of the Gods Each unto the other says, — "Your worship is all wrong. " And so they quarrel and bicker without the least of reason Damn they each the other in each and everv season. "Tell me then, nymph," with her I pleaded, "Hast thou the haunts of men visited and heeded. Or is it not that thy knowledge of man consists Of what thou hast seen within the forest midst?" My words had clouded her pretty face A tiny frown on her brow made trace. Puzzled and askance, a picture of woe — Wounded her heart, as by mortal blow. She answered me; doubting it seemed The truth of my words, — as if I'd blasphemed. "True," she answered, "I'm quite unallowed To visit those regions 'yond the forest's shroud And the words you've spoken are a cruel blow To one whose learned to love mortals so. '"'Tis quite beyond all my conceiving That mortal could be so deceiving And why, I pray, can such misery be.^ O, shame! O, shame! that such can be." She noted my surprise at this her confession Of such slight knowledge of man her possession, Resurrection of the Gods 59 And hastened at once to me to explain The cause of her ignorance for which she felt shame. "All nymphs," she said, "of Piper Pan Are held within bonds of the sacred plan As, too, the gods; tho with less restraint Yet, often they even voice a plaint. "And so, sir mortal, 'tis as you've stated My knowledge, by you, was no doubt overrated. For all that I know of mortal man I have learned it here in the realm of Pan. "But O, how my being has thrilled with joy (And, alas! my dreams are shattered now,) What joy I've known when mortals would appear Within the forest, my native sphere. "For with accents sweet and voices athrill They bespeak their joy at sight of a rill; And chant they songs of each shrub and tree Their happiness unbounded! their lives so free! "How often have I stood a pace or two aside. Watching happy lovers or perchance a groom and bride — Watching them embracing anon as they'd stroll And truly did their actions at times seem very droll. 6o Resurrection of the Gods "Then when they slumbered I have favored them with dreams Just to keep them quiet and thus by that means Have I often lain beside them, nestled in their arms Just to feel the pleasure of my body growing warm. " For O! " she cried in anguish, " 'tis that for which I pine The warmth of mortal blood, denied to all divine; Our bodies frail and frigid, — transparent too to men Feel not the heat of passion nor yet the love they ken." "Nymph, I interrupted, if thusly I can please Henceforth, I shall sleep, ever beneath the trees. But, pray tell me — Has it ever been my lot To share with such a beauty my lonely cot.^ "And if Fve been so favored — tell me of my dreams — What the spell you wrought — tell me of the themes Did I dream of sunny climes or northlands And waken with a fever or chilled as Boreas's hands.?" "No tales I tell to flatter sir," she answered me, "But if perchance a nymph hath ever slept with thee Thou couldst not dream of tropic homes. More like, 'twere frost disturbed thy bones. " Resurrection of the Gods 6i So thus at last I comprehended How my pleasant rest was oft' times ended Beneath the covers that should have kept me warm When sleeping within the realms of Pan Where fragrant breezes so near to calm Seemed bent on causing some frigid harm. However, was I not allowed much time For reflecting on those ills of mine Those wrongs I'd fancied to be Boreas's jesting Which, now I knew must have been Stolen warmth by nymphs of Pan Stealings made while I was in slumber resting. For yet again did the nymph remind me That I should hasten to where Freyja'd find me. Thus to continue my journey as planned And ere I left (just to prove my love) I sought to embrace my nymphian dove And tried, a kiss, on her brow to emplant. But she deftly escaped me and left me alone Fled she in fear and I heard her moan, As into the distance she vanished. And I feared that I'd wronged her Because of ill thots that thronged her Because of the love I'd have lavished. Standing there in contemplation Of the strangeness of all creation, And wondering why this nymph had fled; 62 Resurrection of the Gods Who might have known, and did, no doubt, That I loved her only with a love devout. A voice from a near by tree then said, "Why ponder thus o'er facts so patent If knowst thyself; 'tis most certain That shouldst thou love thou wouldst not attempt eluding The object of thy desires That causes thy passion's fires To burn so brightly that all else is excluded. But not like thee Can the female see And so acts contrariwise. But thou hast lost Both lover and host And must seek elsewhere a paradise." In vain I plead for the nymph's return The voice but laughed to hear me mourn, And sadly, at last, turned I to flee. Haunting regrets and memories' pains Occupied now my miseried brain And I longed for the void of an eternity. The forest so dark, of giant trees Swayed lazily about in the mildest breeze And chanted a dismal dirge. While forward I, with miseries pent. Forlorn, forsaken, aimlessly went Until reaching at last the forest's verge. Resurrection of the Gods 63 Where — ^joy of my heart! Sweet Freyja stood, And pleasantly greeted me — Freyja, the good. "Welcome sir!" she cried In tones so vibrant with cheer That my heart grew gay Instanter and vanished all sorrow and fear. But when I attempted recounting to her my tales of woe She chlded me for such gossip with just two words —"I know" And forbade me to tell of my troubles and In truth made light of my sorrow And told me to forget that at once for great was the work for the morrow. Said she, "Preparest thou therefore and soothe thy mind with rest A couch shall be brought forth at once, — one of the very best. " So saying, Freyja called In some miraculous manner A troop of minutest elves, each with a twig as banner. I watched them each and all deposit their mighty portion And when the task was finished was a bed as soft as the ocean. I noted then also, with a smile quite slyly mine. She'd had the bed made distant — where the nymphs could never find. 64 Resurrection of the Gods For nymphs cannot emerge without the forest's shade, And I questioned of myself — -"Could Freyja be afraid — Afraid that I'd lose slumber through some nymphian rogue Seeking warmth from the body of a mortal, 'neath a robe?" 'Neath a robe of silken fibres woven from the trees By a myriad of little elfins who did it just to please The great and lovely Freyja — goddess of them all; Goddess of the great is Freyja, likewise goddess of the small. I wondered too that a single bed was made — Freyja smiled derision when those my thots she read. But I less adept at divining the plans she had Determined then to question her tho I knew I risked my head. So I asked most meekly where she intended sleeping Telling her 'twas irksome for elves to go a-seeking After fall of night for leaves for other couches Being too, too dangerous for them to carry torches. And I proffered her my couch, all, if she required "For," I concluded, "you also, must be tired." She looked at me as tho dismayed that I should thus aspire Resurrection of the Gods 65 To share my couch with one so great — ^with station so much higher. Still, her happy sense of humor preserved me from extinction Tho a million elfins laughed with her and made shame my great affliction. "Mortal creature that thou art, I forgive thee thy delusion But Freyja goes to sleep alone where e'en the gods tempt no Intrusion. "So sleep thou well nor let the nymphs disturb thee. Thou, a holler love shalt find, ere long, to curb thee." Saying which, Freyja left me there alone Vanishing. Whlther-f* I have never known. Puzzled my soul and awearled of bone I timidly crept to my bed, — 'alone. Too wearied Indeed to think or to ponder O'er events of the day so fraught with such wonder. And doubting my senses and fearing to venture Contemplating at all concerning the future. Oblivion I sought In the arms of Morpheus Beloved of the weary! Holy son of Somnus. Tho arising at dawn, Freyja was soon at my side Leading the winged steed which she stated I should ride. 66 Resurrection of the Gods She bade me mount at once, saying, "We must hasten." I murmured somewhat — discontent — because no food I'd eaten. She scorned to heed my uncouth misbehavior, Saying, it was ill to think of food save as just a savior, And then, with but the minutest gesture Bade my body to remain that thus it could not pester, — Could not pester the flight for which she'd made arrangements And off we flew together regardless of my argu- ments. I regretted indeed the loss of my poor form of clay But Freyja assured its return later in the day. It took but a scant hour for she and I to fly To where I first met her — within the desert dry. And there I met again those gods in feathered form That I had feared before, were intent on doing harm. But whom I met with pleasure now, nor feared I they at all For royally had they treated me, each of them and all. They'd arranged the place for comfort since last I was there Resurrection of the Gods 67 A bower of beautiful trees, — vine covered every- where. A spring of crystal water gushed forth from the hill The fruit of some great power — someone's mighty will, — Arranged about were seats threaded with spun gold. Through a curtain of spraying water almost icy cold, The air was passing alway, which made it pure and sweet, A carpet of velvet grass grew now beneath our feet; A table, too, was there laden with delicious dishes, Wine and fruit galore, to satisfy our wishes. When the greetings were all over 'twixt Freyja and her friends They began cajoling her anent her mission's ends Accused they her of seeking to win a mortal's love (Being uncontent with all immortals from above.) Some clamored for the privilege of being an escort Thus her plans of conquest to, in a measure, thwart. He who clamored most was no doubt a god of splendor Tho poorly could I judge, (he in guise of gander.) 68 Resurrection of the Gods Tho, yet his voice and manner of a most coura- geous kind Proved a vigorous body as well as brilliant mind. I could illy keep from smiling at the oddity of the sight And at length I told to Freyja that I thought it wasn't right For such gods as they to thus parade Before one whose acquaintance each of them had made. "Why, I'm surprised!" Freyja exclaimed to me, "Lovest thou not the birds .^ Thinkest thou them unlovely.?" "Nay," I answered, "but according to a mortal's mind A bird is lovely only when possessed of a bird's mind. But rather 'tis incongruous and seems to them absurd To hear the voice of humans spoken by a bird." "'Tis ill that thou shouldst criticise," she gently cautioned me, "But," she then continued, "If our dress offend thee — Just to make you happy and contented in your mind The gods shall appear to thee as beings of your kind." Resurrection of the Gods 69 So, behold ! When I looked again The gods appeared as supermen And Freyja too became a girl Like unto those who fill and fool the world. I, too, received my form of clay — How it arrived I cannot say When all were bidden to sit at the table To relieve it of its burden as much as we were able. While round the bounteous board we sat and each with the other jested The gods the merrier grew, the longer that they feasted. For an hour or more in jovial mood they gossiped, While I wondered about their dignity — fearing they had lost it. At length however they changed their mood and began to question me. And also tell about their plans, and I listened to all attentively. Thor spoke first, and tho in kindly tone, I was indeed affrighted Because of the weirdness of his voice — this god so very mighty. Said he, "Sir Mortal, what is thine choice .f* W^ho wilt thou in future serve. This god whom none hath seen nor wilt commun- ion have 70 Resurrection of the Gods With mortals who dwell on earth, nor wilt their pleadings heed Nor seems will serve another than he who's born to greed ? "This God whom christians claim, 'The just and only one,' Who yet permits on earth, the rankest injustice done, — I, who am master of intrigues and wars And delight, in common with my companion Mars "To behold the heroism of mortals upon a battlefield Would yet, to the cry of orphans some pity yield. Have I not beheld, within the recent past Widows and orphans in millions for days not break their fast. To me, this God of whom christians prate Appears, not a God of love but rather one of hate, One who jeers at sorrows and finds pleasure in the pain Of all who are not of kingly birth; and delights in the heaps of slain. When we were overthrown by the power of the goodly Christ Took we our punishment unmurmuringly: 'Twas the fault of a great one's vice. Resurrection of the Gods 71 One whose power grew so great here upon this earth That mortals still do worship him — -even from their birth. I speak of he called Mammon, the youngest god ofaU Who sits alone at table in yonder end of hall. Who. sits alone at table nor joins us in our feasts Lest he lose a drop of wine or a morsel of his meats. We seek now to dethrone him and leave him on earth to dwell For such ungainly creatures are fit for but earth or hell. Therefore, ere thou lea vest, to judge him thou art asked, After the feast the trial shall be, altho 'twere an irksome task. Thereby, ye see, sir mortal, how just we shall be The rewards of every mortal, likewise his destiny Shall be granted according to the virtues that are his or hers Therefore, again I ask, sir mortal, who wilt thou in future serve .^" "Truly, Thor, " I answered, "the sights I've seen of late Together with the kindness that you've shown Makes me long very much to partake Of the bounties of such a throne. 72 Resurrection of the Gods But then 'twere a task to a mortal most severe To break allegiance and all ties sever From that God he's been taught to fear And for whom the claim is made there is none other. And yet thy accusations seem to me most just For well I know of the miseries endured through- out this life But we've been promised compensation when our bones are turned to dust And the compensation greatest to him of greatest strife." "So indeed!" the great Thor replied, "to some extent 'tis true But compensation, only will be given unto him to whom it's due To him who is unschooled in the workings of the soul Will at last find compensation Is not paid in gold. "And the struggle must continue and he whose soul's so sordid That it cannot harmony's laws comprehend Will find himself unable, when the soul is free to soar. To keep his soul Intact and 'twill be lost forever- more. "Like unto the dumb beasts his soul will separ- ate — Resurrection of the Gods 73 Divide into atoms and reach the primal state — And he who'll be rewarded and rewarded quite the most Will be the one whose soul is farthest 'bove the bestial hosts." "Thy words are quite confounding," at length I answered Thor, "The Christ we love taught to us very much the same. And it's strange to me to hear such words from thou, the god of war, And I'm much inclined to follow thee till at least I find it vain." A resounding cheer rang out while high their glasses held, The gods and goddesses each (their faces shone delight) Greeted me their first convert, while heavenly music knelled "Death to Christianity, — mankind's most wretch- ed night." "Hark! ye gods!" I then explained, intonating ridicule. We mortals think, — and, too, with the best of reason That we've progressed far more since we've followed Christ's good rule. To deny it were but folly and to truth attempted treason. 74 Resurrection of the Gods And surely the world's less wretched than 'twas in your day And the night of which your elfins sing and chant Is less wretched, is it not, than when ye held sway? Lest I've been mistaught your statements are but cant." "Nay," the gods then answered me, "quite true that misery thrived, But the reason's not the same today as when we lived. Wretchedness then was born through fear of tyrants' might And man would not so fear today except they're taught 'tis right. "Wretchedness today is caused alone through fear. They're taught 'tis wrong to seek their own — all, all that's dear. Hypocrites, who are your rulers, threaten with the wrath Of that God they know, is but a fear inspiring myth. "And so men languish in chains of shame. Chains of superstition, the chains of poverty and ill fame. Once remove their cause for fear — so vile, And no longer will they, to masters be servile. Resurrection of the Gods 75 "And that's the work for thee, according to oui plan, Eradicate the curse of fear from all your fellow- man. Teach them to praise the gods of poesy who now will be supreme. We gods reward the vaHant and make their lives serene. "Go thou first and build a shrine to the immortal thou lovest most. Build it not of pretentious size to awe the vulgar hosts. Use not thou, rare stones but rather vines and trees, Build thou it to suit thine self, 'twill the gods most please. "Seek ye then our aid and all the gods shall foster All thy plans and cause that they mature. Thou shalt truly prosper. When your disciples are numbered by scores, as truly they shall be — Permit them each to choose his own divinity." Our attention was now directed to Mammon, where at his lonely feast (A sorry aspect he, uncouth in truth, in manner,) He smacked his lips in satisfaction much as might a beast And swept aside his dishes all, creating a noisy clatter. 76 Resurrection of the Gods With frowning brow and eyes downcast, No word of greeting for his friends at board The length of the room he shuffled past, Apparently dreaming of his gold mad hordes. But ere he traversed the length again — Amidst a tense and ominous silence, — Thor arose and called his name And begged the pleasure of an audience. All were then to seats, in a semi-circle arranged, Led forth to try a god whose company no longer was desired Because of his selfish manner he had made him- self estranged; In the murk of greed and conquest his sordid self was mired. I, by a god, was ushered unto the judge's seat. While Mammon sat quite near, — ill humor was his mien — No jurors there nor witnesses as with gods 'twas meet Since none would stoop to an untruth and thus his honor stain. Then Thor at once began the sins of Mammon to state. He told of all his grievous faults, that were to them at least, So great they could no longer his presence tolerate And henceforth he to them could be but an out- cast. Resurrection of the Gods 77 Said he, "We have with us a mortal, — one of the unbrlbed — One who's not your victim and belongs not to your tribe. This mortal shall pronounce your sentence and relieve the gods of shame Should the sentence pronounced upon thee befit not thy fame. "God Mammon," he continued, "the charge that's most against thee Is the crime we gods call greatest. Thou art charged with hypocrisy. By wiles that are deceitful hast thou brought shame to man No longer seek they only to follow the sacred plan. "Their souls are seared with selfishness, a trait that thou hast taught Themselves and thou occupy now practically all of their thoughts These things we gods have noted and beside an equal crime Thou hast sought to exclude their worship from every shrine but thine. "Therefore your presence. Mammon, in our realm Is no longer wished Thou shalt henceforth be banished forever from our midst. But, yet art thou given, before this mortal judge A chance to plead thy cause, lest his ruling be unjust." 78 Resurrection of the Gods Astonished to stupefaction for a moment Mam- mon sat — Contortions of his face bespoke the mingled pains. Then slowly to his feet arose, discarding a silken wrap, Raised his head in hauteur, his lips curled in dis- dain. His voice so full of scorn — 'in every tone he jeered At this that was to him a punishment illy meted. While I, appointed judge, for my welfare really feared Lest perchance he'd think himself, by me illy treated. Yet my fears were groundless for he heeded me as a nonentity. He spoke alone to his former friends who now at last were foes. Said he, "Ye gods, I'm flattered by this your enmity. It indeed, your fear of me, more than aught else shows. "My power, indeed, hath grown so great That jealousies now consume thee, And to check that power thou art too late For 'twill, for ages, rule without me. "Thou mayest slay me if you will But I defy ye all; gods and men and even fate. Resurrection of the Gods 79 My power shall rule all mankind still, My spirit will thrive e'en 'gainst thy hate. "During all the centuries of our confinement, With a promise of untold wealth, Hath a myriad of elves, in my employment, Been teaching in honor and in stealth. "The glories of Mammon the king. King of the gods! King o'er the hearts of men^ All to the altar of Mammon bring Both honored and steeped in sin. "Their hearts of evil, hearts of good. Tears of sorrow and tears of shame. Their very souls are Mammon's brood Forever and ever 'twill be the same. "Tho despised am I by honored friends. And alone must seek my comrades 'Mongst evil elves where all beauty ends Tho I sink now to the slime of things most sordid "Yet will I, in triumph and with glee. Perceive the tribute paid for ages yet to come — All honor from mankind will still be paid to me Though clouds of shame, henceforth, at this my fatal doom. "Keep me bowed with grief and in solitude to mourn — 8o Resurrection of the Gods To mourn the passing pleasures of the fellowship of my kind Yet, tho of all the glory of life with thee I'm shorn There'll be sweet revenge in knowing I am loved best by mankind." The speech of Mammon ended 'twas meet that I should speak And let be known to him the future he must seek. Where his future days be spent, whither he should roam — Hastily I concluded that the earth should be his home. So I said, "God Mammon, because of your love of self And the curse you've wrought on man (their cursed love of pelf) I'd sentence you to dwell in the darkest depths of hades Were I not most fearful lest ye teach those rene- gades, — Those renegades of Satan's — hapless sons of pride — The cunning of your craft and cause them to im- bibe Of the cup that's brought to mortals shame And curse them, too, with the loathing lust for gain. Therefore, god Mammon, a more bitter penance I view Resurrection of the Gods 8i One that will more greatly goad the heart of you. No other realm shall be given unto thee for con- quest, Your evil work must cease, henceforth shalt thou rest. Thou shalt henceforth in Idleness forever roam the earth Your might and power impotent as the infant at its birth. And tho your spirit, as boastfully you contend. May yet taint humankind for time without an end. Yet shall ye suifer as your victims (unsated ever and ever) Thirsting for the power from which, I now, thee sever. So, now, farewell, god Mammon, — I speak for your friends as well, A life on earth no doubt you'll find more irksome than one in hell." When the gods heard me pronounce Mammon's doom And he, the champion dispenser of gloom, Had taken an early departure, A sigh of relief was echoed about And a cheer of praise for me rang out At choosing for him such fortune. 82 Resurrection of the Gods Then hastened each from his tribune seat To gaze upon Mammon's forlorn retreat, Wending his way o'er the desert wastes. And they felt remorse at their kindred's fall For, tho he loved them not at all, Their hearts were saddened by his loss of place. Their hearts were saddened by this the sight Of a god so great in power and might Reduced to the plane of a mortal soul — No longer sped he as a bird in flight Carried by the force of his wondrous might — But wearily plodded to reach a goal. At length we noted that the day fast waned And much indeed there yet remained Of converse concerning the future And hastened we again to the banquet board Where unseen elves the rare wine poured For each goddess and her suitor. Soon again supreme joy reigned, The glasses tinkled merrily. Glorious ladies and gods unaged. Spoke their minds unwarily. Freyja, the fair Her sunlit hair Glistening as burnished gold, Spoke with candor Resurrection of the Gods 83 And told of the grandeur Of the gods in the days of old. And filled with glee She confided to me Their happiness in store again When communion with men Was restored again And unchallenged they should reign. Yet she chilled my soul When at length she told Of the changes in store for women, Declaring that they In the future may Implace themselves rulers of men. She told me then That while I was with Pan She hastened away to read women's hearts That she might know Whether of weal or woe In the future to them she'd impart. And declared then with fervor That she'd confer greater favor Than ever they'd known of before — She'd grant them more beauty And considered it her duty To aid them in winning world power. "And tho I must grieve At what I perceive 84 Resurrection of the Gods In store for them In the great distance 'Twere folly for me To attempt to decree That their ambition be shorn of persistence. "But, enough! Be it said That ere thou art dead Thou shalt see woman rule Tho they bring disaster By being thy country's master. Experience alone will be their school. "For years by the score Shall they maintain their power And with ruthlessness born of vanity Scorn to be considerate — ■ Until vengeance, born of hate, Will drive man from his inanity. "And the shackles of patience And chains of submission By a storm of rebellion he'll break — He'll no longer be gracious Nor filled with compassion For she who should be his mate. "But by brutish means To gain selfish ends Once more he'll be lord over women Tho acknowledged as fiends By foes and by friends — Not shame shall detract from their venom. Resurrection of the Gods 85 "And women again shall be Dominated by force of strength (Save those too proud to submit) And they shall be made to flee To a mateless commonwealth And there from the world exit — "Exit from the world alone, Martyrs to ideals too great For the myriads of selfish men, Heart-broken with wishes for home Hungering to the last for the mate Without which they'd as well not have been. "Then will man retrograde Declaring it a useless task To climb ever upward to meet — Not the cherished dreams of Arcade, Not the surcease they now ask, — • But ever and ever defeat. "And women shall bear the blame And burdens will be heaped upon them The same as in ages past. Their souls will be seared with shame At the contempt shown them by men And their beauty and souls will wither before that burning blast." Such words did Freyja say Ere she said to me farewell. And I listened and believed it all For pride and scorn is a woman's way Whenever they fare too well And thus have they caused great nations' fall. j ■ W lllliljH il 1 ,