‘Nothing’ by Hermann von Gilm zu Rosenegg (1812–1864) I should name, you say, my queen in the realm of love? You are fools, for I know her less than you do. Ask me about the colour of her eyes; ask me about the sound of her voice; ask me about…

‘Sonnet 44’ by William Shakespeare (1564–1616) If the dull substance of my flesh were thought, Injurious distance should not stop my way; For then despite of space I would be brought, From limits far remote where thou dost stay. No matter then although my foot did stand Upon the farthest…

‘Eternity’ by Anna Laetitia Barbauld (1743–1825) — — — The year has run Its round of seasons, has fulfilled its course, Absolved its destined period, and is borne, Silent and swift, to that devouring gulf, Their womb and grave, where seasons, months and years, Revolving periods of uncounted time, All…

‘You have not recognized me in the crowd’ by Arseny Arkad’yevich Golenishchev-Kutuzov (1848–1913) You have not recognized me in the crowd, Your glance did not say anything. But I felt wonder and fright When I caught it: It was only a moment; But believe me, within it I re-lived again …

‘It’s coming ‑‑ the postponeless Creature’ by Emily Dickinson, (1830–1886) It’s coming — the postponeless Creature — It gains the Block — and now — it gains the Door — Chooses its latch, from all the other fastenings — Enters — with a “You know Me — Sir”? Simple Salute…

‘On the Move’ by Karin Boye, (1900–1941). The satiated day is never the greatest. The best day is a day of thirst. There is probably purpose and meaning in our journey but it is the pathway there, which is worth our while. The greatest aim is a night long rest, …

‘All things in the world are fleeting and fluctuating’ by Felix Ludwig Julius Dahn (1834–1912) All things in the world are fleeting and fluctuating as gossamer: Only true love — it alone endures; God holds it high in grace. I know a shrine of the Mother of God; it stands…

‘Magnet’ by Maximilian Bern, (1849–1923) The magic charm that drew me on, Was not thine eyes’ resistless spell, And not thy gleaming golden hair Nor that sweet form I know so well. The magic power that drew me on Was just thy voice’s tender tone, The nightingale had taught thee…

‘The furious heat of a hot fire’ (Anonymous) The furious heat of a hot fire I feel making its mark in my heart, It’s Love, who sees similar warmth Grow from the coldest ice. Smitten by the godlike grace Of my Diana, who lightens My shadows, day and night, Love…