Narcissus

by D. H. Lawrence

　　

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WHERE the minnows traceA glinting web quick hid in the gloom of the brook,When I think of the placeAnd remember the small lad lying intent to lookThrough the shadowy faceAt the little fish thread-threading the watery nook—It seems to meThe woman you are should be nixie, there is a poolWhere we ought to be.You undine-clear and pearly, soullessly coolAnd waterlyThe pool for my limbs to fathom, my soul's last school.NarcissusVentured so long ago in the deeps of reflection.IllyssusBroke the bounds and beyond!—Dim recollectionOf fishesSoundlessly moving in heaven's other direction!BeUndine towards the waters, moving back;For meA pool! Put off the soul you've got, oh lackYour human self immortal; take the watery track.

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