Poems (Rossetti, 1901)/Memory
For works with similar titles, see Memory.
MEMORY.
I.
I NURSED it in my bosom while it lived, I hid it in my heart when it was dead: In joy I sat alone, even so I grieved Alone and nothing said.
I shut the door to face the naked truth, I stood alone—I faced the truth alone, Stripped bare of self-regard or forms or ruth Till first and last were shown.
I took the perfect balances and weighed; No shaking of my hand disturbed the poise;Weighed, found it wanting: not a word I said, But silent made my choice.
None know the choice I made; I make it still. None know the choice I made and broke my heart,Breaking mine idol: I have braced my will Once, chosen for once my part.
I broke it at a blow, I laid it cold, Crushed in my deep heart where it used to live.My heart dies inch by inch; the time grows old, Grows old in which I grieve.
II.
I have a room whereinto no one enters Save I myself alone: There sits a blessed memory on a throne,There my life centres.
While winter comes and goes—oh tedious comer!— And while its nip-wind blows; While bloom the bloodless lily and warm roseOf lavish summer.
If any should force entrance he might see there One buried yet not dead, Before whose face I no more bow my headOr bend my knee there:
But often in my worn life's autumn weather I watch there with clear eyes, And think how it will be in Paradise When we're together.