Sun and fire warm the earth At Old Candlemas returning.
Through the long night see it shine, Magic in the thin flames burning.
In the clouded vault of heaven, Jewelled stars that sparkle clear,
Dance in their eternal measure through the changes of the year.
Snowdrops through the frozen mould Force a greanleaf blade again,
While above the brances bare Shake in freezing wind and rain.
Crouched upon the cottage floor, See the witch that eyes the flames,
Whispering as the candles burn, Naming age-old pagan names.
Primal powers of Death and Life,
Called on by her invocation,
Viewless presences draw near,
As she weaves the incantation.
Knotting in the witches’ cord The immortal spells that bind,
Through the winter and the dark,
Love to Life and Hope to Mind.
Doreen Valiente.
