W H Auden

Villanelle

Time can say nothing but I told you so, Time only knows the price we have to pay; If I could tell you, I would let you know. If we should weep when clowns put on their show, If we should stumble when musicians play, Time can say nothing but I told you so. There are no fortunes to be told, although Because I love you more than I can say, If I could tell you, I would let you know. The winds must come from somewhere when they blow, There must be reasons why the leaves decay; Time can say nothing but I told you so. Perhaps the roses really want to grow, The vision seriously intends to stay; If I could tell you, I would let you know. Suppose the lions all get up and go, And all the brooks and soldiers run away? Time can say nothing but I told you so. If I could tell you, I would let you know.