This work was composed in honor of all who struggle with the ravages of war and face an ongoing battle with post-traumatic stress disorder. It is dedicated to the memory of Pfc. Joseph Dwyer, a native Long Islander, who lost his battle with PTSD following his tour of duty as a medic in Iraq. The sung text is based on text attributed to 17th-century composer Orlando Gibbons, reminding us that swans sing only just before their death.