Lyrics Anne Kilmer and Lorna Govier - A Sumerian Drinking Song

O gakkul-vat, O gakkul-vat
O gakkul-vat, Lamsara-vat
The gakkul makes the liver glad
The Lamsar makes the heart un-sad
The ugur-bal doth suit the home
When sa-gub jar is filled with foam
The am-am jar doth serve Lamsar
The pails of reed come from afar.

Refrain:
Kase Kase Kase Kas
Kase Kas
Kase Kas
Kase Kase Kase Kas
Kase Kase Kas Kas

The server the beer of all the lands
These lovely pots stand on their stands
May your god's heart upon you smile
Let Gakkul's eye be ours the while
Let Gakkul's heart be ours in truth
For it will profit both forsooth
Glad the liver, glad the heart
Libate the Brick of future part.

Refrain

Foundations set for health and peace
Ninkasi's presence'll never cease
Let her pour for you this beer and wine
The liquor's sound is sweet and fine
Sweet beer abounds in pails of reed
Of boys and bearers there'll be a need
As I spin around on lots of beer
As I feel bliss and I feel cheer