I chose the title Journey because it means travelling from one place to another. In this case I hoped to convey both a physical and mental voyage.
For the musical setting I chose three voices and simple rhythms. The intent was to portray an isolated and austere setting.
For the structure I cast the song in an extended ballad form (AABABA).
Text:
Cold is this northern land
on this lonely, bitter winter day,
Hard is this frozen sea
In this small shallow bay.
When it warms I'll find a tree
Carve a hull and stitch a sturdy sail
From storms I'll find a lee
When I sail home to you.
Every day the sun ascends
Morning light shines through.
And when the evening sun descends,
The rising moon is you.
Your face is moon light
My soul is the open sea.
Your eyes my beam at night
And your love guides me.
Every night the moon ascends
Stars come into view.
And when the dimming moon descends
The rising sun is you.
How can I rest my soul
When my heart is still so very blue?
In my dreams I build a boat
And I sail home to you.