Why Are You Afraid?
Why are you afraid? Am I not near?
Let the rain beat upon the windowpane,
and let the wind roar far and clear—
you’re with me now, so fear in vain!
Why did you rise and peer through the boards?
As if you wait for something, surprised—
but through those slats, you’ll see no forms,
is it a sudden thought that’s just arrived?
Rest your head, you’ll be at peace,
sleep on, and let me stay awake…
I always love, with joy and ease,
to watch you dream while I read and take.
To gaze at you asleep—so full of grace,
as breath by breath you drift through dreams—
then slowly, softly, I lift my hand away
from my pen. My heart with quiet gleams.
Oh my beloved, how fair you are,
your face like marble, pure and clear!
I long to draw you close from afar,
to steal you gently to my arms, my dear.
But I fear to wake you, so I don’t dare.
Sleep peacefully, with one arm beneath your cheek.
At times I’ll watch you, still and fair,
and let my book fall to the floor, unique.
I’m happy thus. Time rushes by
with the steady ticking of the clock.
Why are you afraid? Don’t shy—
if you don’t sleep, I’ll lay you down in mock!
