Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE RING AND THE HEART, by RAY CLARKE ROSE


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE RING AND THE HEART, by                    
First Line: This ring I give to you, my dear
Last Line: That deep, seductive heart of thine.
Subject(s): Gifts & Giving; Hearts; Jewelry & Jewelers; Love


This ring I give to you, my dear,
Is passing quaint and old and queer;
Two golden serpents help enthrone
Its deep, seductive heart of stone.
Pray, if the golden snakes were gone
Might not the jewel heart throb on
With sympathetic beat and thrill—
Be not, as now, cold, hard and still?

Sometimes about the human heart
The serpents play their selfish part,
And in the pulseless grip of gold
The heart, poor thing, grows hard and cold—
A jewel counterfeiting fire
And flashing with entranced desire,
That nevermore shall find a voice
To make some kindred heart rejoice.

Then let this talisman, this ring,
Save you from such a deadly thing;
Beware of golden snakes, and strive
To keep your tender heart alive;
And if you fear this may not be
Without assistance, come to me,
And in my love will I enshrine
That deep, seductive heart of thine.





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