Sonnet XVII I do not love you as if you were salt-rose, or…
““Sonnet XVII I do not love you as if you were salt-rose, or topaz, or the arrow of carnations the fire shoots off. I love you as certain dark things are to be loved, in secret, between the shadow and the soul. I love you as the plant that never blooms but carries in itself the light of hidden flowers; thanks to your love a certain solid fragrance, risen from the earth, lives darkly in my body. I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where. I love you straightforwardly, without complexities or pride; so I love you because I know no other way than this: where I does not exist, nor you, so close that your hand on my chest is my hand, so close that your eyes close as I fall asleep. ””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Love is described as a deep, secret, and essential connection that transcends ordinary descriptions, rooted in darkness and hidden light.
In simple terms: Love is a secret, deep bond beyond words.
Embrace love’s hidden depths.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- intimate relationships
- personal reflection
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden aspects of love do you cherish?
- How does secret love shape identity?
Such love may be hard to articulate to others.