1. I drank wine at dawn, clear as a rooster's eye,
As the star of night fluttered as if about to set.

2. I summoned the tavern keeper and he hastened
To bring a selection of jugs and flasks.

3. His bible is the jug; he's well versed
In giving out drinks and taking payment.

4. He shoved the flasks in on either side of him
By God, what a sight those flasks made!

5. An ancient skin not worn down by years
Sporting two spouts since it was first stitched.

6. The cup in the barman's hand is like
A planet resting in the grip of fate.

7. When the cupbearer splashes it with water, you see it
Crowned at the top with a ring of foam.

8. The cupbearer turned it with practiced flicks
Of his wrist and fingers.

9. It takes on some of his colour
And both their hues on his cheek flow as one.