Across the world (Villanelle)
A. Beach
Across the world I speak to thee;
Where'er thou art (I know not where),
Send thou a messenger to me.
I here remain who would be free,
To seek thee out through foul or fair,
Across the world I speak to thee.
Whether beneath the tropic tree,
The cooling night-wind fans thy hair, --
Send thou a messenger to me!
Whether upon the rushing sea,
A foamy track thy keel doth wear, --
Across the world I speak to thee.
Whether in yonder star thou be,
A spirit loosed in purple air, --
Send thou a messenger to me!
Hath heaven not left thee memory
Of what was well in mortal's share?
Across the world I speak to thee;
Send thou a messenger to me!