Monody to the Sound of Zithers

I have wanted other things more than lovers ...

I have desired peace, intimately to know

The secret curves of deep-bosomed contentment,

To learn by heart things beautiful and slow.

 

Cities at night, and cloudful skies, I've wanted; 

And open cottage doors, old colors and smells a part;

All dim things, layers of river-mist on river--

To capture Beauty's hands and lay them on my heart.

 

I have wanted clean rain to kiss my eyelids,

Sea-spray and silver foam to kiss my mouth. 

I have wanted strong winds to flay me with passion;

And, to soothe me, tired winds from the south.

 

These things have I wanted more than lovers...

Jewels in my hands, and dew on morning grass--

Familiar things, while lovers have been strangers. 

Friended thus, I have let nothing pass.

 

--Kay Boyle