Classic Poem

CXX

So unwarely was never no man caught
With steadfast look upon a goodly face
As I of late; for suddenly methought
My heart was torn out of his place.

Thorough mine eye the stroke from hers did slide.
Directly down unto my heart it ran
In help whereof the blood thereto did glide
And left my face both pale and wan.

Then was I like a man for woe amazed
Or like the bird that flyeth into the fire;
For while that I upon her beauty gazed
The more I burnt in my desire.

Anon the blood stert in my face again,
Inflamed with heat that it had at my heart,
And brought therewith throughout in every vein
A quaking heat with pleasant smart.

Then was I like the straw when that the flame
Is driven therein by force and rage of wind.
I cannot tell, alas, what I shall blame
Nor what to seek nor what to find.

But well I wot the grief holds me so sore
In heat and cold, betwixt hope and dread,
That but her help to health doth me restore,
This restless life I may not lead.