Flecker read by Classic Poetry Aloud: http://www.classicpoetryaloud.com/ Giving voice to the poetry of the past.

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Gravis Dulcis Immutabilis by James Elroy Flecker (1884 – 1915)

Come, let me kiss your wistful face Where Sorrow curves her bow of pain, And live sweet days and bitter days With you, or wanting you again.

I dread your perishable gold: Come near me now; the years are few. Alas, when you and I are old I shall not want to look at you:

And yet come in. I shall not dare To gaze upon your countenance, But I shall huddle in my chair, Turn to the fire my fireless glance,

And listen, while that slow and grave Immutable sweet voice of yours Rises and falls, as falls a wave In summer on forgotten shores.