Richard Watson Gilder

The New Day. Part 3. 11. “Once Only”

Once only, Love, may love's sweet song be sung;
But once, Love, at our feet love's flower is flung;
Once, Love, once only, Love, can we be young;
⁠Say shall we love, dear Love, or shall we hate!


Once only, Love, will burn the blood-red fire;
But once awakeneth the wild desire;
Love pleadeth long, but what if love should tire!
⁠Now shall we love, dear Love, or shall we wait!


The day is short, the evening cometh fast;
The time of choosing, Love, will soon be past;
The outer darkness falleth, Love, at last;
⁠Love, let us love ere it be late—too late!