Oh how I love to wander up Latrigg once again
In blazing summer sunshine or driving winter rain,
But now the hues of autumn in Brundholme woods appear
I walk oppressed by sombre thoughts of when I won't be here.

A mournful owl is hooting from shadows far below,
The rusty slopes of Skiddaw in sunset splendour glow,
Across the vale of Keswick one lone star glitters pale
Above the misty mountains round the jaws of Borrowdale.

As Derwentwater's islands in twilight fade away
I curse the God who wants my soul and will not let me stay,
For promises of heaven and harps and endless light
Can never compensate for this fading lakeland night.

So scatter here my ashes that when I come no more
Some part of me may linger on Derwentwater's shore.