An Autumn Love Cycle/Afterglow

by Georgia Douglas Camp Johnson

For works with similar titles, see Afterglow.

Afterglow

Through you I entered heaven and hell,Knew rapture and despair,I flitted o'er the plains of earthAnd scaled each shining stair:Drank deep the waters of content,And drained the cup of gall,Was regal and was impotent,Was suzerain and thrall.

Now, by Reflection's placid poolOn evening's mellowed brow,I smile across the backward wayAnd pledge anew my vow;For every glancing, golden gleam,I offer gladly—pain!And I would give a thousand worldTo live it all again!

Finis