XXI. If I could think how these my thoughts to leave

Sir Philip Sidney (1554–1586)

IF I could think how these my thoughts to leave;

Or thinking still my thoughts might have good end:

If rebel sense would reason’s law receive;

Or reason foiled would not in vain contend:

Then might I think what thoughts were best to think;

Then might I wisely swim, or gladly sink.

If either you would change your cruel heart;

Or cruel still, time did your beauty stain;

If from my soul, this love would once depart;

Or for my love, some love I might obtain:

Then might I hope a change or ease of mind;

By your good help, or in myself to find.

But since my thoughts in thinking still are spent,

With reason’s strife, by sense’s overthrow;

You fairer still, and still more cruel bent;

I loving still a love, that loveth none:

I yield and strive; I kiss and curse the pain,

Thought, reason, sense, time, you and I maintain.