Toward that mystic land of fond memories I wandered alone at end of day; Climbing well-known hills with sure-footed ease, Down familiar paths I made my way
Through a schoolyard gate how quickly I ran To greet dear friends that had blessed my youth; To reclaim those happy hours was my plan, But instead, I faced a bitter truth
As I glanced around me with childhood's eyes I saw laughing faces everywhere, I smiled and waved, only to realize Of my presence they were unaware
Once again my thoughts carried me away To where my sweet love and I once strolled, Somewhere is that strange Land of Yesterday, But his image refused to unfold
There alone I stood pondering my plight -- Where was the bright sunshine of my past? Now, tightly bound by the dark threads of night, Life had left me, helpless and downcast
I knew then the past must be laid to rest, But what agony to my heart came! How do I douse this fire within my breast? O, winds of Time, please blow out the flame!
Truth has inflicted an egregious wound: No more can I walk Yesterday's shore; The roiling seas of life left me marooned, Exiled to the Land of Nevermore