T. R. Smith, comp. Poetica Erotica: Rare and Curious Amatory Verse. 1921–22.
To Lesbia
By Joannes Secundus (15111536)(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 |