Excavations

On A Theme by Jaufre Rudel

When now the days are long in June
I love to hear the dial tone distant,
and when the sound must die - too soon -
I dream about a love as distant;
Deep in my worst debts I am drowned.
Adverts for calling cards abound,
and warm me no more than winter snow.

But I believe that the airlines one day
will let me see this love that's distant.
(Ah, for one good call, my lot, I pay
with double bills, since he's so distant)
Would as an heiress I were clad,
and with a hundred grand to add:
I'd tell my creditors which way to go.

What pleasure it would be to pay,
Good God! the bills to that place far distant;
for when I've pleased, I'd often stay
on the telephone lines with my love far distant -
What sweet discourses will abound,
when near the distant love is found:
and may the phone bill once again be low...

Love has no joy when I must stay
and pay for this love that is so distant.
Such postage, fees, would keep away
all but the dauntless from their love far distant.
So helpless am I to my debt
that I am tempted my pants to wet.
To end this plight, I'd distant go;

The industry has fashioned this, I'd say.
It's conspired to keep my good credit far away.
Oh hear me cry, and don't delay
but give me yet my traveler's discount -
In such sweet bliss (I'd barely stand!)
would I be, if I could leave this land -
and go where no collectors know!