WHY need you a burnished mirror of gold, O bright and imperious face? Mine eyes be the shadowless wells of desire For the sun of your glory and grace! Why need you the praises of ivory lutes, O proud and illustrious name? My voice be the journeying lute of delight For the song of your valour and fame! Why need you pavilions and pillows of silk, Soft foot-cloths of azure, O Sweet? My heart be your tent and your pillow of rest, And a place of repose for your feet! Why need you sad penance or pardon or prayer For life's passion and folly and fears? My soul be your living atonement, O Love, In the flame of immutable years! |