Forever Marks

On darker nights love seems to linger on:
It leaves harsh marks - so difficult to lose.

But, in the moonlight, love can fade - I've done
All that I can to keep it tight and close
To all that I hold dear: that's all that you
Would want to have and hold; so, our two forms
Remain replete, contented, as we strew
All hints of quarrels to fierce autumn storms,
That strip the trees and steal the tiles from rooves.

You'd leave us settled, immured against fate
Or other cruel devices - each one proves
Pale love is worthless - it can only chafe
Against whip marks, you leave me with, that make
Lust so vivid, I must, forever, ache.