A Backward Glance.
Were all the ways wherein you went,1
In plenitude of calm content,2
Of old,3
Without my presence, lone or cold ?4
Were all the flowers that, year by year,5
You watched, and kissed, and held so dear,6
Less sweet,7
Before God willed we two should meet ?8
Was every song and sweet refrain,9
Whereof your lips are now so fain,10
Unsung,11
Or meaningless, without Love’s tongue ?12
For now, in looking backward, I13
Discern no light nor melody,14
Nor find15
Any dear memory soul-enshrined ;16
Nor can I see aught blest or bright,17
Aught of loveworthy, aught of right18
Or true,19
Until the day that brought me you.20