Classic Poem

Silent and alone she came
In the gloaming and the shade,
As the day shed forth its last
Gold talents, of the sunset made.

Her arms were folded on her breast,
Bright beams of light played on her face,
Fell to her feet; two glorious shafts
Illumined then her eyes with grace.

And as she stood all motionless
Two glowing embers dipped in flame
Were struck as lightning from the forge.
What have these eyes from me to claim?


Two basilisks, black as the night,
Have cleft through air their venomed way,
Straight from her eyes into my heart,
Descending there they fix the prey.

They ravage fearless, vomit gall,
Breathing fire-flame to consume;
Save me, heaven, save me now,
From a self-engendered tomb!


Now has she passed from out my sight,
With hidden steps she walks apart,
But her eyes are still a torment,
And the Death is in my heart.