Poem by David Herbert Lawrence

After Many Days

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.

1. In Trouble and Shame
2. The Blue Jay
3. The Song of a Man Who Has Come through
4. Discord in Childhood
5. Nostalgia

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