Dear Clio

Clio

Dearest lover of mud and fire

Ever sought by men’s desire,

Especially by tyrants’ ire;

Without your tongue, not wont to tire

The greatest were yet forgotten, left in mire

 

Of those – one who’s truly able

Dared to call you but a fable-

I slam my fist upon the table!

To offer such a brazen label

Dissuades my heart from beating stable

 

Mine is a love of stronger zeal!

Hereby before you do I kneel;

Present me thou with lovers’ seal

To my nascent boat become the keel

Ah! what pangs and longing do I feel!

 

My dear, my love, my burning flame,

I beg you hold me not to blame;

T’is love! I seek you not for the sake of fame!

 

But dearest, darling, if you came,-

Wouldn’t you, please, just slightly raise my name?