Lyrics [Intro] [Solitary, majestic harpsichord melody, low cello undertone] [Verse 1] [Restrained, noble vocal delivery] He who wields evil... without causing harm, Nor uses the full force of all his power, Who moves all others with a silent charm, Yet stands like granite through the tempest hour. [Break] [Subtle pizzicato strings] [Verse 2] [More intense, darker vocal tone] To him alone does heaven grant its grace, And earth bestows her gifts of precious worth. He holds the power of a royal place, While others serve his grandeur on this earth. [Bridge] [Dissonant string swells, tempo tightens] [Verse 3] [Building vocal emotion, cello counterpoint] The summer cherishes its finest flower, Though lone it blooms... and silently decays; But if sweet virtue rots within its bower, A simple weed deserves a higher praise. [Chorus] [Stripped-back, dramatic vocal pause, bitter tone] The wildest thistle stays more dear to see... Than poisoned lilies and corrupted roses! [Outro] [Abrupt dissonant string tail, lingering cold harpsichord chord] [End]
