After Many Days

 I WONDER if with you, as it is with me, 
If under your slipping words, that easily flow 
About you as a garment, easily, 
 Your violent heart beats to and fro! 

Long have I waited, never once confessed, 
Even to myself, how bitter the separation; 
Now, being come again, how make the best 
 Reparation? 

If I could cast this clothing off from me, 
If I could lift my naked self to you, 
Of if only you would repulse me, a wound would be 
 Good; it would let the ache come through. 

But that you hold me still so kindly cold 
Aloof my floating heart will not allow; 
Yea, but I loathe you that you should withhold 
 Your pleasure now.

Form: Free verse Comments

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace