You said that October In the tall dry grass by the orchard When you chose to be free, "Again someday, maybe ten years."
After college I saw you One time. You were strange, And I was obsessed with a plan.
Now ten years and more have Gone by; I've always known where you were - I might have gone back to you Hoping to win your love back.
You still are single.
I didn't I thought I must make it alone. I have done that.
Only in dream, like this dawn, Does the grave, awed intensity Of our young love Return to my mind, to my flesh.
We had what the others All crave and seek for. We left it at nineteen.
I feel ancient, as though I had Lived many lives.
And may never now know If am a fool Or have done what my karma demands.
Gary Snyder was a major influence for me back in the 70s. This poem of his was the perfect lament (for me) of a broken love affair in my teens. Saw him do a reading in Eugene, OR in the 70s. Loved it. Still love his work.