The Desire Sonnets

1.

The briefest touch, a passing finger grazed

Along the back of my bare hand extended,

Leaves flesh and soul and mind alike so dazed

That what he says is left uncomprehended.

His eyes meet mine and show no change of mood,

No sign of thought unchaste or teasing mien,

But only friendship, trust and gratitude

While I but hope my face my thoughts can screen.

With eyes still trained on mine he speaks again:

'I heard that you were hurt, and was concerned.

It pleases me that you are safe, my friend'

Then moves away, to Royal Prince returned.

      Dismissed, in lonely nook rememb'ring thus,

      With deep breaths, 'gainst the wall, I calm my pulse.

2.

When was it, Prince, that you a man became:

No more a distant star, but here on earth?

And why did you descend to bring me shame?

When heaven-high I knew your distant worth.

I no more thought of you within my arms

Than mortals dream of lying with the gods,

Or blossoms, rev'ling in their springtime charms

Would dare to try with winter being at odds.

But now, a cataclysm of the age,

Or alteration gentle in your gaze,

Brings nightly desperate dreams of your embrace

Which, seeing you next morning, blushes raise.

      Or was it not a change in you, but I,

      That for no star, but for a man I sigh?