Answer:
I am the red tongue of the earth, that buries cities.
What is that which, though black itself, enlightens the world without burning?
A serpent swam in a silver urn, A golden bird did in its mouth abide, The serpent drank the water, this in turn, Killed the serpent. Then the gold bird died.
My tongue hangs out as I run over fields and streets all day. I get tied up every morning and untied at night.
I pass before the sun, but make no shadow.
Some women don't like to be called that, yet every woman wants one. It cries and makes a lot of noise, but smiles and gurgles when you give it toys.