Modern Love XXVIII: I Must Be Flattered

 I must be flattered. The imperious 
Desire speaks out. Lady, I am content 
To play with you the game of Sentiment, 
And with you enter on paths perilous; 
But if across your beauty I throw light, 
To make it threefold, it must be all mine. 
First secret; then avowed. For I must shine 
Envied,--I, lessened in my proper sight! 
Be watchful of your beauty, Lady dear! 
How much hangs on that lamp you cannot tell. 
Most earnestly I pray you, tend it well: 
And men shall see me as a burning sphere; 
And men shall mark you eyeing me, and groan 
To be the God of such a grand sunflower! 
I feel the promptings of Satanic power, 
While you do homage unto me alone.

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