FIRST MEETINGS We celebrated every moment Of our meetings as epiphanies, Just we two in all the world. Bolder, lighter than a bird's wing, You hurtled like vertigo Down the stairs, leading Through moist lilac to your realm Beyond the mirror. When night fell, grace was given me, The sanctuary gates were opened, Shining in the darkness Nakedness bowed slowly; Waking up, I said: 'God bless you!', knowing it To be daring: you slept, The lilac leaned towards you from the table To touch your eyelids with its universal blue, Those eyelids brushed with blue Were peaceful, and your hand was warm. And in the crystal I saw pulsing rivers, Smoke-wreathed hills, and glimmering seas; Holding in your palm that crystal sphere, You slumbered on the throne, And - God be praised! - you belonged to me. Awaking, you transformed ...