Red-hot midsummer Torrid winds do moan Earth of dust and crevice Put us off to roam No rain was falling Since spring passed by And this red midsummer Turns into our decay Through that heat Above sand so roan Swirls the blackbird's song Joined by the old trees' groan Locusts sing In bright sunshine And this red midsummer Turns into our decay Place a cross of leaves May there be strength to grow Let us dance this rite Call on the help of Thorr The wooden pole, Wreath and midsummer prayer Help us to avert This imminent decay The Holly King Beats now the King of Oak Yet burn the holy herbs Vervain and Saint John's Wort The child then the Old Man Cast them into the flames Now this red-hot midsummer Is gifted a silver ray Over the stone