The Heart’s Questions

Chopin’s Nocturne, Op. 15, no. 3.

When the heaven is blue, Or the stars look down, Or the golden crown Glows upon the hills,—

When the sky of tears Lets the sunlight through, And the heart a moment thrills, Yea, and utters too,—

Who discerns? who hears? Who but I—and perhaps You?

When some thin thought-wave From the shadow shore Brings the Voice once more From beyond the grave;

When some pain is prest Deep into the breast, And the inward thoughts are swords Killing one with sadness;

Most when love is strong, And the anguish long Rolls up in a haste of words Ending all in madness—

Who is he that soothes or cheers? Who believes? who hears?

Ay, when the Heart grieves, Pants, prays—who believes?—

Ay, when the Heart cries, When it breaks, when it dies,— (Ah, why was the Heart born!—) Who shall save? who shall mourn?