T. R. Smith, comp. Poetica Erotica: Rare and Curious Amatory Verse. 1921–22.
To Lesbia
By Joannes Secundus (1511–1536)(Translated by John Nott) WHEN beauteous Lesbia fires my melting soul | |
| (She who the torch and bow from Cupid stole) | |
| By many a smile, by many an ardent kiss, | |
| And with her teeth imprints the tell-tale bliss; | |
| Through all my frame the madding transport glows, | 5 |
| Through every vein the tide of rapture flows. | |
| As many stars as o’er heaven’s concave shine, | |
| Or clusters as adorn the fruitful vine; | |
| So many blandishments, voluptuous joys, | |
| To inflame my breast, the wily maid employs. | 10 |
| But, dearest Lesbia! gentle mistress! say, | |
| Why thus d’ ye wound my lips in amorous play? | |
| With kisses, smiles, and every wanton art, | |
| Why raise the burning fever of my heart? | |
| Let us, my love! on yon soft couch reclined, | 15 |
| Each other’s arms around each other twined, | |
| Yield to the pleasing force of strong desire, | |
| And panting, struggling, both at once expire! | |
| For oh, my Lesbia! sure that death is sweet, | |
| Which lovers in the fond contention meet! | 20 |