May fall on Death though heaven itself glow hot,

Hell-like, and stars be lighted stubble, and worlds

Like birds drop blinded by the bloody light!

O, such a bonfire do I wish for Death

Or ever his insolent envy of sweet breath

Should touch and soil the body of delight—

The singing flame of fragrant holy fire

Which showed to me the meaning of the spring

And every lovely tune musicians bring

Out of the womb of innermost desire!