Frauenlob

Nora Hopper Chesson

1871 to 1906

Poem Image

Lover of Ladies, 'tis not long 
(Not long as loving goes) 
Since you were known of laugh and song, 
Of rue and rose. 
But now your hot heart cools to dust, 
Forgot of game and glee, 
As heavy hearts and light hearts must, 
With rosemary. 
For all your garlands dipt in wine — 
(Rose-garlands oversweet) 
Now ivy-tendrils clasp and twine 
At head and feet. 
Dream now of Gabriel's golden wings, 
Of Michael sweet and strong: 
Of wet brakes whence a mavis sings 
All the day long. 
Dream thus until your wings shall grow, 
And purged of earthly leaven — 
Lover of Ladies, you shall go 
Mid fields of heaven.