Before Morning in Perugia by Jack Gilbert

Before Morning in Perugia

 

Three days I sat

bewildered by love.

Three nights I watched

the gradations of dark.

Of light. Saw

three mornings begin

and was taken each time

unguarded

of the loud bells.

My heart split open

as a melon.

And will not heal.

Gives itself

Senselessly

to the old women

carrying milk.

The clumsy men sweeping.

To roofs.

God protect me.