ALWAYS I knew that it could not last
(Gathering clouds, and the snowflakes flying),
Now it is part of the golden past;
(Darkening skies, and the night-wind sighing)
It is but cowardice to pretend.
Cover with ashes our love’s cold crater,––
Always I’ve known that it had to end
Sooner or later.
Always I knew it would come like this
(Pattering rain, and the grasses springing),
Sweeter to you is a new love’s kiss
(Flickering sunshine, and young birds singing).
Gone are the raptures that once we knew,
Now you are finding a new joy greater,––
Well, I’ll be doing the same thing, too,
Sooner or later.
From Enough Rope (Boni & Liveright, 1926) by Dorothy Parker. This poem is in the public domain.