Sappho: LXXX

How to say I love you:
What, if I but live it,
Were the use in that, love?
Small, indeed.

Only, every moment
Of this waking lifetime
Let me be your lover
And your friend!

Ah, but then, as sure as
Blossom breaks from bud-sheath,
When along the hillside
Spring returns,

Golden speech should flower
From the soul so cherished,
And the mouth your kisses
Filled with fire.