XXXVI “A questi dí prima io la vidi. Uscia”
These were the days when first I saw her growing
Like bud to flower in the time of spring,
Her figure such a sweet and lovely thing
As if one heard love's richest music flowing.
The bashful blushes on her cheeks were showing
What native grace her gentle speech could bring;
As on smooth seas the stars their radiance fling,
So in her laughing eyes the soul was glowing.
'T was such I saw her. Now with mad desire
As in a world of stifling air alone
I wander, weak and worn with my inquiring,
Till strength remains only her name to moan
As with each breath I feel my life expiring:
O Light of all my years, where art thou flown?
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Juvenilia.