In a Boat

See the stars, love, In the water much clearer and brighter Than those above us, and whiter, Like nenuphars.

Star-shadows shine, love, How many stars in your bowl? How many shadows in your soul, Only mine, love, mine?

When I move the oars, love, See how the stars are tossed, Distorted, the brightest lost. --So that bright one of yours, love.

The poor waters spill The stars, waters broken, forsaken. --The heavens are not shaken, you say, love, Its stars stand still.

There, did you see That spark fly up at us; even Stars are not safe in heaven. --What of yours, then, love, yours?

What then, love, if soon Your light be tossed over a wave? Will you count the darkness a grave, And swoon, love, swoon?