RIVER-POOLS
Reading edition
Were I a shadow in a pool I would not live, I would not fear to die; But only, faint and cool, I’d pass my days of unreality In passive contemplation of the sky; And no desire should shake me. And no denial break me, Ah, fool, Thou art no shadow in a pool. Were I a shadow in a pool I could not love, I could not thrill with hate; But, ashy-pale and cool, Through endless meadows moving desolate I would outgaze the sky dispassionate, With never grief to move me. And never friend to love me. Glad fool, Thou art no shadow in a pool!