When none beside existed. Thou and I
Have Lover and Belovéd been
Before this era of mortality.
How strange the turns in Love's unending game,
For neither Lover nor Belovéd lit
The ever-burning flame:
Whence was the spirit that enkindled it?
The road that leads where pious pilgrims bow
In Kaaba or in Temple, Thou hast laid;
And first of all wert Thou