DESCRIPTION:
This is the fifth movement from Geoffrey Gordon's chamber vocal work, Fallen Eve (five songs after Hughes), in a performance by the Center for New Music ensemble at the University of Iowa, under the direction of David Gompper and featuring guest artist, mezzo soprano Ann Cravero. The performance dates from December 6, 2009.

V. Fallen Eve

My mouth is the despair of God
Formed only for men.

The serpent remains earthen, brutishly-veined,
Rooted in crevices, living on flies and men --

The serpent that should have strangled me
And then eaten itself.

I sing, stamping the grueling drum-beats
To renew fallen men.

Love is weak to protect as webs.

In April my body begins to frighten me
And my sleep fills with weeping--

Again and again the forced grave of men.