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After Many Days

by D. H. Lawrence, 1916

I wonder if with you, as it is with me,
If under your slipping words, that easily flow
About you as a garment, easily,
    Your violent heart beats to and fro!

Long have I waited, never once confessed,
Even to myself, how bitter the separation;
Now, being come again, how make the best
    Reparation?

If i could cast this clothing off from me,
If i could lift my naked self to you,
Of if only you would repulse me, a wound would be
    Good; it would let the ache come through.

But that you hold me still so kindly cold
Aloof my floating heart will not allow;
Yea, but I loathe you that you should withhold
    Your pleasure now.

Published in Amores
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