To an Absent Lover

 That so much change should come when thou dost go, 
Is mystery that I cannot ravel quite. 
The very house seems dark as when the light 
Of lamps goes out. Each wonted thing doth grow 
So altered, that I wander to and fro 
Bewildered by the most familiar sight, 
And feel like one who rouses in the night 
From dream of ecstasy, and cannot know 
At first if he be sleeping or awake. 
My foolish heart so foolish for thy sake 
Hath grown, dear one! 
Teach me to be more wise. 
I blush for all my foolishness doth lack; 
I fear to seem a coward in thine eyes. 
Teach me, dear one,--but first thou must come back!

Form: Sonnet Comments

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