My Sweet Josephine

“I detest you” even though

we have only just married.

My affection for you is false

as I find you foolish. 

How can I love an ungraceful hussy?

“I hope before long to crush you in my arms.”

Desire drives my very need

to give a million kisses.

My soul burns in longing.

Allow me to embrace my beautiful wife!

“You are wicked and naughty, very naughty.”

How dare you not offer

sweet nothings to your caring lover;

For, I am always writing to you.

Why deceive your poor husband?

“A kiss on your heart and one much lower down.”

For I will be alone, far, far, away.

Please join me and enter my arms.

Milan alone holds nothing for me.

Take flight and come!

“You don’t love your husband.”

No letters written in your hand

has left me to believe

your fondness was empty.

How can you take away my happiness?

“Your tears rob me of reason.”

and light the embers 

of my heart.

You, I wish I could confide in.

My blood warms at every thought of you.

“Adieu, adorable Josephine.”

for my jealousy will be unleashed.

One of these days,

I will be on your arms.

Why wish to drive me this way?

“Happy I would be if I could assist you—undressing.”

To remove all obstructions

and see the fair skin beneath.

I yearn to see your hair in a scarf.

Now, desire to touch you strikes me yet again!

“The veil is torn.”

Sad is when feelings conflict.

I grow weary of grandeur 

and wish to be in solitude.

How can a fountain of affection run dry?

“Without his Josephine…what can he do?”

Love from you keeps me alive.

No amount of power can 

assuage the struggles.

Without your affection I am the shell of a man!

Your Loving Emperor,

Napoleon Bonaparte