ADAH ISAACS MENKEN.
_HOLD ME NOT_.
Up to the zenith mount!
Far into space—
Ah! all thy tears I count,
Sad, loving face.
Clasp not my garments so,
Love of my soul;
Clinging, you drag me low,
Where tortures roll.
Soil not my angel wing;
Keep not from rest;
How can I upward spring,
Clasped to thy breast?
Hold me not, lover—friend—
Earth I would fly;
Passion and torture end
In the blest sky!
Life brought but woe to me,
Even thy kiss
Gave me but agony—
Remorse with bliss!
Let go thy earthly hold—
Fain would I fly;
Voices with love untold
Call from on high.
Farewell—the dregs are drank
Of life’s sad cup;
It proved but poison rank;
Life’s lease is up!