Do not dream of me.
Nay, without mistake,
Even for love’s sake
And all heedfully;
Do not dream of me.
All day long am I
Leal to all you ask:
Wish and care and task,
Every need come nigh;—
Still to serve and try.
But with my Good-night,
O unrippled sleep!
What is here, should keep
This bewildered light
From its skyward right?
Let me feel no need;
Not a love that clings.
Let me have my wings;
Love my wings indeed:
Give my wings godspeed!
Do not dream of me.
Waking, I’ll be human;—
Call it child or woman.
Sleeping, I would be
Only Something Free.