Classic Poem

When you, my love, were here
My voice was full and loud—
I sang to catch your ear:
Now you are in your shroud
I cannot sing for fear.

That vague world is so near—
Beyond its veil of cloud—
Where you abide, my dear,
If I should sing too loud
Who knows but you would hear?

And then your heart would break
With pity, for my sake.