I memorized this in high school, suffering over some heartbreak or another. Funny how that pain just sort of pales in comparison, huh? Anyhow, I have always carried this in my head. Had to look it up to get the last line.
I have lost you, and Iost you fairly, in my own way, and with my full consent. Say what you will, kings in a tumbril rarely went to their deaths more bravely than this one went.
Some nights of apprehension and hot weeping I will confess. But that's permitted me.
Day dried my eyes. I was not one for keeping rubbed in a cage a wing that would be free.
Had I loved you less, or played you slyly, I might have held you for a summer more.
But at the cost of words I value highly, and no such summer as the one before.
Should I outlive this anguish--and men do-- I will have only good to say of you.
