An Acrostic

by Edgar Allan Poe — a poem card from Justes Mots

An acrostic poem spelling Elizabeth's name, gently chiding her for claiming not to love while her sweet words betray her true feelings, using classical mythology to warn against suppressing romantic desire. A witty Valentine that flatters through wordplay and literary allusion. Perfect for a thoughtful Valentine's greeting that appeals to the recipient's intelligence and literary sensibility.

Elizabeth it is in vain you say
"Love not", thou sayest it in so sweet a way:
In vain those words from thee or L. E. L.
Zantippe's talents had enforced so well:
Ah! if that language from thy heart arise,
Breathe it less gently forth, and veil thine eyes.
Endymion, recollect, when Luna tried
To cure his love, was cured of all beside,…

Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship