Le Mot Juste

I saw you again last night, real and near and true--- And knew that, if I found The Right Word (not good words, or convincing words; only The Right Word would do), You would turn and see me, And know, clean and clear, Like the ringing of a bell, That though the years have blurred My face and mind and touch, Still there within my heart, I hold you near and well, More tenderly, I swear, Than I have words to tell. Then I woke, and found I was alone, And The Right Word slipping back, Away from daylight mind, Back into the midnight of my soul--- I will find it yet, this I vow--- And if the Universe has truth or heart, I will be allowed to speak it to you.