The first clarion calls
Commanding the ground
To shake underneath
The phalangites' sandaled feet!
Horses of war
Trampling the earth -
Dust clouds doth raise
A halo around the charge!
Pure ran the river,
'ere the clash of the swords;
The Nymphs in the water
Shrank back in fear
Alexander shines ahead
Leading the cavalry forth!
A lion of gold
His helmet flashes a roar:
Those who stand against him shall
I fall, down where Granicus flows
Where Granicus flows...
Red runs the river,
Foaming with blood;
The Nymphs in the water
Embracing the dead!
The din of arms
Was heard loud and far
Ringing a knell
That sang The Persian in throes!
Barbarians impaled
On Sarissae long -
Their poignant screams
Were carried to Abydos' halls!
To Abydos' halls!
Red ran the river
In the battle's wake -
Granicus forever
Victory's shrine shall remain!
Alexander triumphant
Raised his broad sword -
Hailing the sun
And the eagles aloft!