When
the shy star goes forth in heaven,
All maidenly, disconsolate,
Hear you amid the
drowsy even
One who is singing by your gate.
His song is softer than the dew
And he is come to visit you.
O bend no more in revery
When he at eventide is calling
Nor muse: Who may this singer be
Whose song about my heart is falling?
Know you by this, the lover's chant,
'Tis I that am your visitant.
- James Joyce, Chamber Music.
Written in Paris January 1903, possibly for Maud Gonne. Possibly inspired by Ben Jonson.