In Ancient Countries

In ancient countries
The basilisk's smile
Reflects from the hearths
Of broken fires,
In ancient countries.

In ancient countries
The gryphon soars
Mantled with eagles
And ringed with lions,
In ancient countries.

In ancient countries
The unicorn runs,
Beset by hunters,
Beset by beauty,
In ancient countries.

In ancient countries
The phoenix lifts,
Dying in fire,
And reborn from ashes,
In ancient countries.

In ancient countries
The dragon flies,
Winged in power,
Harbinger of glory,
In ancient countries.