After Many Days / D.H. Lawrence



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.