Would that I could always upon her gaze
Poem (Canso):
Would that I could always upon her gaze
And by that set of ruby lips be grac'd
As I might hope the finest wine to taste
And count my life in draughts, rather than days,
Residing in her mouth's twin crimson rays
Absorb'd in scarlet that I could not waste
As her mouth and mine might be interlac'd,
My kiss a prayer, a breath, and total praise.
In her might I find the greatest reward
For a life of diligent piety
Mine eyes on her lips to watch every word
And hope that she might speak but one to me
And grant me a moment in Paradise
Teaching my lips the noblest exercise.