I do not love you as if you were salt-rose, or topaz,
or the arrow of carnations the fire shoots off.
I love you as certain dark things are to be loved,
in secret, between the shadow and the soul.
I love you as the plant that never blooms
but carries in itself the light of hidden flowers;
thanks to your love a certain solid fragrance,
risen from the earth, lives darkly in my body.
I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straightforwardly, without complexities or pride;
so I love you because I know no other way
than this: where I does not exist, nor you,
so close that your hand on my chest is my hand,
so close that your eyes close as I fall asleep.
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Comments2This is such a moving piece. The depth and intensity of the love described is so profound. It's not just about physical attraction but reaching into the essence of another person. Truly poignant, makes you feel seen, loved, and understood.
Sonnet XVII is so beautifully layered with feeling. It stirs up a raw emotion about the depths of love, permeating beyond physical attraction. It reminded me that love is often inexplicable, complex and filled with mysterious intricacies. It's moving and powerful, yet so subtle and quiet in the way it touches your soul. I also love the message of unity and closeness, literally merging into each other. Profoundly moving.