Ii

AND oh, my little one, you whom I enfold, How quaveringly I depend on you, to keep me alive, Like a flame on a wick!

I, the man who enfolds you and holds you close, How my soul cleaves to your bosom as I clasp you, The very quick of my being!

Suppose you didn't want me! I should sink down Like a light that has no sustenance And sinks low.

Cherish me, my tiny one, cherish me who enfold you. Nourish me, and endue me, I am only of you, I am your issue.

How full and big like a robust, happy flame When I enfold you, and you creep into me, And my life is fierce at its quick Where it comes off you!