The Smiter

I am the sword:
That out of eternity came; 
Not water baptized me but flame. 
Earth made me not, neither the sea. 
But the fire in the earth's middle night 
Drave me into the light.
Sorrow I never have known,
But hunger and thirst are my own,
And the joy when man lusteth to slay 
His brother, and take to his prey 
The woman made prize of the fray. 
Conquered and conquerors still 
Are but the slaves of my will. 
No one I bow to as Lord, 
Hearken to me — 
I am the sword. 

I am the sword: 
Kingdoms have fallen and risen 
Since I broke out of my prison, 
Deep in the heart of the fire,
Shining and hot with desire. 
Kingdoms shall pass and arise, 
Earth he made new, and new skies; 
Love shall take Death for a friend 
Ere my rule come to an end. 
Angels in heaven afar, 
Are they not angels of war? 
Michael bears me at his side, 
Splendid, a weapon of pride. 
Lucifer's sword is of light, 
Supple as cord, 
I am all swords and his sword. 

I am the sword:
Of all the tears that Have poured 
Over my brightness remains 
None, though a widow's, to show 
Splendour was weaker than woe. 
I am the maker of kings: 
Man sees me gleam, and be sings 
Songs that drive onward to death. 
Give me of blood and of breath,
And I will give you again 
A minute that shines over pain, 
Over terror and death to deny 
That the spirit of man can die. 
I am the changer of life, 
Not only master of strife,
Since to my lover I lend 
Peace and clear sight at the end.
I am the sword.