Erotika: Dithyrambs: Ode to Atthis

I loved you, Atthis, once, long years ago! My blood was flame that thrilled to passion's throe; Now long neglect has quenched the olden fire, And blight of drifting years effaced desire. I loved you, Atthis—joy of long ago— Love shook my soul as winds on forests blow; This lawless heart that dared exhaust delight, Unsated strove and maddened through the night. I loved you, Atthis, once, long years ago! With pain whose surge I felt to anguish grow; Suffered the storms that waste the heart and leave A desert shore where seas but break to grieve. I loved you, Atthis—spring of long ago— Watched you depart, to Andromeda go; Then I, as keen despair its shadow cast, O’er my deserted threshold, sobbing, passed. I loved you, Atthis, once, long years ago! The thought of me is hateful now, I know; And all the lavish tenderness of old Has gone from me and left my bosom cold. I loved you, Atthis—dream of long ago— . . . . . . . . . . . . How the fond words, impassioned music low, Sustain the sigh of love's divine regret No length of time may bid the heart forget.