The Muse at the Hotel Lombardy
Host at my single table
I face the unseen guest --
a place set for the angel,
as if that soul could rest.
Once I knew one, held one
that left, but leaves this shade.
A shadow abides with me,
a trace by longing laid.
That Cupid kiss like promising
the heart that cannot stay;
in vacant room, the echo --
absent love, same way.
Incarnate one now joins me,
the banquet set before.
The spirit at my supper --
than such repast, no more!