Saul sits on his throne. Court stands scattered around him as he sings.
SAUL: [sings]

Saul’s Lament *

Oh God, why has thou forsaken me?
Why has thou removed thyself?
Why hast thou vanished like a leaf that burns slowly on the ground
Why has thou broken all bonds with me

Answer me
Answer me

Saul rises.

You promised me a land
A land flowing with milk and honey
Oh Lord, the flame is low
And flickers faintly in the night, oh Lord

Saul holds up an empty goblet.

Oh cup of bitterness
Oh cup of sorrow
Oh cup of loneliness
Empty as tomorrow.

Saul and his court repeat twice from “Oh cup of bitterness” Court exits.

Saul: [sing]
If I had my wish
I wish that it would be
I could return to thee
With all my soul
I would return to thee
And never be
Wayward in my work
To serve thee well

I remember a time
It wasn’t long ago
I was next to thee
And life was pure
Oh to return to thee
Can never be
I’ve been expelled
And the gates are closed. 

I remember a time
It wasn’t long ago
I was next to thee
And life was pure
Oh to return to thee
Can never be
I’ve been expelled
And the gates are closed. 

I remember a time
It wasn’t long ago