For Eager Lovers

I understand what you were running for, Slim naked boy, and why from far inland You came between dark hills. I know the roar The sea makes in some ears. I understand.

I understand why you were running now And how you heard the sea resound, and how You leaped and left your valley for the long Brown road. I understand the song

You chanted with your running, with your feet Marking the measure of your high heart's beat. Now you are broken. Seeing your wide brow I see your dreams. I understand you now.

Since I have run like you, I understand The throat's long wish, the breath that comes so quick, The heart's light leap, the heels that drag so sick, And warped heat wrinkles, lengthening the sand. . . .

Now you are broken. Seeing your wide brow I see your dreams, understanding now The cry, the certainty, wide arms, — and then The way rude ocean rises and descends. . . .

I saw you stretched and wounded where tide ends. I do not want to walk that way again.