Астерий (Asterion) Lyrics

There we were around the spring well
preparing hecatombs for the eternal gods near the plane tree
clinging to the golden cup
inhaling greedily at the fumes of intoxicating nectar

And the maidens will bathe the bulls, adorn them with wreaths; the restless herd will then walk towards the spectators in the squares
Along the sun-soaked shores, along the marble temples, to the place where Pallas blocks the sacred gate with her spear

The bronze stings
make hundreds of black throats erupt a howl
there is a scarlet river flowing
it is the blood of Asterion's children

And their father hears them from the temple's grim depths his insane scream echoes their croak
his long sleep amid incense smoke has come to an end as poppy seeds and
Cretan wine have no more power over him

To the rumble of trumpets the circle of kneeling tribunes is rejoicing and calls again tasting the blood of Asterion's children "He saw the kingdom's zenith its ruins along the cliffs at the sea through the long vista of years their laughter their lament their triumph and sorrow"

Prince, do hurry to appear! Leave the quiet marble halls adorn the curves of your mighty horns with Hecate's crown Prince, do appear before us! The time has come for a colossal harvest Enjoy the love of the crowd, the nectar and the bulls' meat

Asterion, do appear!