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1885–1930

NARCISSUS

David Herbert Lawrence

WHERE the minnows trace A glinting web quick hid in the gloom of the brook, When I think of the place And remember the small lad lying intent to look

Through the shadowy face At the little fish thread-threading the watery nook — It seems to me The woman you are should be nixie, there is a pool

Where we ought to be. You undine-clear and pearly, soullessly cool And waterly The pool for my limbs to fathom, my soul's last school.

Narcissus Ventured so long ago in the deeps of reflection. Illyssus Broke the bounds and beyond!— Dim recollection

Of fishes Soundlessly moving in heaven's other direction! Be Undine towards the waters, moving back;

For me A pool! Put off the soul you've got, oh lack Your human self immortal; take the watery track.

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NARCISSUS · David Herbert Lawrence · Poetry Cove