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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


FRESCO-SONNETS TO CHRISTIAN S.: 7 by HEINRICH HEINE

First Line: OF SAVAGE DEVILS'-BRATS, MY FRIEND, BEWARE
Last Line: AND COULD MY LIFE-BLOOD MEANWHILE CEASE TO DRIP!
Subject(s): ANIMALS; CATS; LOVE - COMPLAINTS;

OF savage devils'-brats, my friend, beware,
But gentle angels'-brats more hearts will break;
Once such a one a sweet kiss bid me take,
But when I came, I felt sharp talons there.
Of black and ancient cats, my friend, take care,
But white young kittens are still more awake;
Once such a one my sweetheart did I make, --
My heart my sweetheart savagely did tear.
O darling brat! O maiden passing sweet!
How could thy clear eye e'er deceive me so?
How could thy paw e'er give me such a blow?
O my dear kitten's paw so soft and neat!
Could I but press thee to my glowing lip!
And could my life-blood meanwhile cease to drip!



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