I am stirred by the dream of an afternoon Of a perfect day -- though it was not June; The lilt of winds, and the droning tune That a busy city was humming; And a bronze-brown head, and lips like wine Leaning out through the window-vine A-list for steps that were maybe mine- Eager steps that were coming. I can see it all, as a dreamer may -- The tender smile on your lips that day, And the glow on your cheek as we rode away Into the golden weather. And a love-light shone in your eyes of brown -- I swear there did! -- as we drove down The crowded avenue out of the town, Through shadowy lanes, together: Drove out into the sunset-skies That glowed with wonderful crimson dyes; And with soul and spirit, and heart and eyes, We silently drank their splendor. But the golden glory that lit the place Was not alone from the sunset's grace -- For I saw in your fair, uplifted face A light that was wondrously tender. I say I saw it. And yet to-day I ask myself, in a cynical way, Was it only a part you had learned to play, To see me act the lover? And I curse myself for a fool. And yet I would willingly die without one regret Could I bring back the day whose sun has set -- And you -- and live it over. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...TO THE BELOVED by ALICE MEYNELL POLITICAL GREATNESS by PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY FOAM STRAY by JOSEPH AUSLANDER THE DISTANCE by ABRAHAM COWLEY ON THE JOY UNIVERSALLY EXPRESSED ON THE KING'S HAPPY ESCAPE by WILLIAM COWPER |