Marc Almond - The Slave

In a Byzantine harem
Where, seeking paradise,
I'd disguised myself as a dog,
A slave told me:

Me, I'd like heavy pearls
Enamelled black pearls
To be dumb, and almost deaf
So that you'd soothe me with words
Words which resemble the sea
Words that one sees through
Words of bitterness and love
Tender words, severe words

Me, I'd like crowded rooms
Where stretched out naked on all fours
Encircled by dogs and chains
Tasting mysterious liquors

Drinks of life and drinks of death