So, while searching through my older files tonight, I found this poem by Pablo Neruda. I actually first heard it when I saw the movie, “Patch Adams.” I loved that movie. And I don’t know if you all know - but “Patch Adams” is a real person. And this was a true story.
Of course, as most movies are - some of it was changed, but one thing remains true… This is just a beautiful piece.
Sonnet XVII - Pablo Neruda
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.
**note: I have seen this poem with the words “Intimate” where the word “close” is. I actually, like the “close” version better)**





