War and Love/Bondage

by Richard Aldington

For works with similar titles, see Bondage.

 

BONDAGE

I have been a spendthrift—Dropping from lazy fingersQuiet coloured hours,Fluttering away from meLike oak and beech leaves in October.

I have lived keenly and wastefully,Like a bush or a sun insect—Lived sensually and thoughtfully,Loving the flesh and the beauty of this world—Green ivy about ruined towers,The out-pouring of the grey sea,And the ecstasyOf a pale clear sky at sunset.

I have been prodigal of loveFor critics and for lonely places;I have tried not to hate mankind;I have gathered sensationsLike ripe fruits in a rich orchard …

All this is gone;There are no leaves, no sea,No shade of a rich orchard,Only a sterile, dusty waste,Empty and threatening.

I long vainly for solitudeAnd the lapse of silent hours; I am frantic to throw offMy heavy cloth and leather garments,To set free my feet and body;And I am so far from beautyThat a yellow daisy seems to clutch my heartWith eager searching petals,And I am grateful even to humilityFor the taste of pure, clean bread.