To a Stranger Jake Heggie

Passing stranger! you do not know how longingly I look upon you
You must be he I was seeking, or she I was seeking, (it comes to me
As of a dream,)
I have somewhere surely lived a life of joy with you
All is recall'd as we flit by each other, fluid, affectionate
Chaste, matured
You grew up with me, were a boy with me or a girl with me
I ate with you, and slept with you-- your body has become not yours
Only, nor left my body mine only
You give me the pleasure of your eyes, face, flesh, as we pass-- you
Take of my beard, breast, hands, in return
I am not to speak to you--I am to think of you when I sit alone, or
Wake at night alone
I am to wait--I do not doubt I am to meet you again
I am to see to it that I do not lose you