William Ernest Henley

Echoes. 16. While the West Is Paling

While the west is paling
   Starshine is begun.
While the dusk is failing
   Glimmers up the sun.

So, till darkness cover
   Life’s retreating gleam,
Lover follows lover,
   Dream succeeds to dream.

Stoop to my endeavour,
   O my love, and be
Only and for ever
   Sun and stars to me.