it doesn't matter what we used to be, how we used to live, because now we are nothing but the lost and now not even the luminescence of a thousand lanterns can help us out of this darkness.

not a thousand lanterns burning bright

will draw us from the warmth of night

we might need to be rescued, but we've learned that we won't be. we will adapt. we have no form, no self, and no difficulty.

not a thousand lanterns burning strong

will serve to end our mournful song

we know now that we are alone and we have always been alone and we always will be, even in the middle of the loudest crowd.

not a thousand lanterns burning true

will take us from the grief we're due

it's better this way, with this certainty. it's almost calming, to know that we will never have to worry about change. it is okay, because it has to be, since it will be forever.

not a thousand lanterns burning real

will end the searing pain we feel