Constantine P. Cavafy

29 April 1863 – 29 April 1933 / Alexandria

Chandelier

In a room -empty, small, four walls only,
covered with green cloth-
a beautiful chandelier burns, all fire;
and each of its flames kindles
a sensual fever, a lascivious urge.

In the small room, radiantly lit
by the chandelier's hot fire,
no ordinary light breaks out.
Not for timid bodies
the lust of this heat.
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