Sonnet LXXXIII. Let not one spark of filthy lustful fire

Edmund Spenser (1552?–1599)

[In all early editions, this sonnet is numbered LXXXIV., and the succeeding poems are numbered LXXXV. et seq. But the sonnet originally headed LXXXIII. is a repetition of the sonnet already printed as number XXXV. That sonnet is not repeated here, and the numbering is altered accordingly.]

LET not one spark of filthy lustful fire

Break out, that may her sacred peace molest;

Ne one light glance of sensual desire

Attempt to work her gentle mind’s unrest:

But pure affections breed in spotless breast,

And modest thoughts breath’d from well-tempered sprites,

Go visit her in her chaste bower of rest

Accompanied with angel-like delights.

There fill yourself with those most joyous sights,

The which myself could never yet attain:

But speak no word to her of these sad plights,

Which her too constant stiffness doth constrain.

Only behold her rare perfection,

And bless your fortune’s fair election.

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