One of the wonderful things about translating Latin hymns is seeing their daring use of biblical imagery.
I doubt many writers would characterize the prophetic voice as a rooster, but Jesus did, and so St. Ambrose does too.
Of course the rooster simply tells of the morning, whose Sun is the true Source of light, a light that darkness can never overcome, and Whose word is worthy of trust.
Aeterne rerum Conditor
Eternal maker of all things
Of day and night the sov’reign King,
Refreshing mortals, You arrange
The rhythm of the seasons’ change
Of day and night the sov’reign King,
Refreshing mortals, You arrange
The rhythm of the seasons’ change
The rooster sounds his morning cry
–Throughout the night he watched the sky–
For travelers, a guiding light
To tell the watches of the night.
The morning star that hears the cry
Dispels the darkness from the sky.
The demons, hearing the alarm
Abandon all their paths of harm.
The sailor hears and he is brave;
The sea becomes a gentle wave.
The rooster’s call reached Peter’s ears:
He washed away his sins in tears.
Our wav’ring hearts, Lord Jesus, see.
O look upon us, make us free,
For in Your gaze no fault can stay,
And sins by tears are washed away.
O Light, upon our senses shine.
Dispel our sleepiness of mind,
That we may sing Your morning praise,
Then, vows fulfilling, live our days.