The Dread of Death

Chorus:
Evermore, wherever I be,
The dread of death troubles me.

As I went out for ease
I heard a man sighing, "Alas!
Of me now it is the case,
     The dread of death troubles me.

I have been lord of tower and town,
But I care nothing for my renown
For death will drag it all down.
     The dread of death troubles me.

When I shall die I am not sure,
In what country, in what hour;
Wherefore I say sobbing to my power,
     The dead of death troubles me.

When my soul and body parted be,
None can say how God will judge me,
Nor my place: where I will be;
     Therefore the dread of death troubles me.

Jesus Christ before me suffered his passion,
To His Father prayed with great devotion,
`This is the cause of my intercession:
     The dread of death troubles me.'

All Christian people, wise and aware--
This world is but a cherry fair,
Repleat with sorrow, filled with care;
     Therefore the dread of death troubles me.

Whether I be merry or good wine drink,
When I do on my last day think,
It makes my soul and body shrink,
     For the dread of death troubles me."

Jesus, if we grant him honor,
At our end will be our succor,
And keep us from the fiend's power,
Then the dread of death won't trouble me.

| Original Poem |