The Toll of the August Sovereign

Sing, spirits of sunlit gold,

out, tell of your souls

statue army, bound to terracotta dolls. Feel no wounds yet

take your toll.

Sing, vermillion dragon-king,

guide of water, rivers of fluid wings,

overcome Tianxia, transcend her. August Sovereign,

take your toll.

Sing, those beholden to the Qin,

hath not bronze both copper and tin?

so, engulfed in awe, bow. Mourn, blesséd ren,

take your toll.

Sing, Di, and watchers alike,

an Ode to … His Bloodshed. A ballad … of Burnt Books.

Warn not when it is wanted, insodoing watch,

and unto earth, smite

exult your toll.

pictured: Qin Shi Huang (18 February 259 BC – 10 September 210 BC)