From “Vita Nuova” [My thoughts all tend to speak of love]

^{translated from the Italian by Joseph Luzzi}

             My thoughts all tend to speak of Love,
  And are of such a varied kind,
  That one believes Love rules as friend,
  Another calls his power crazed,
  Another brings me hope and joy,
  Another makes a flood of tears.
  The goal of pity’s all they share,
  Quaking with fear that fills my heart.
               So I don’t know which theme to choose,
  And though I wish to speak, words fail.
  I find myself ensnared by Love!
  The only harmony of mind
  Can come from one whose help I loathe,
  That Lady Pity who’s my shield.