By Dante Alighieri
Date: 5 January 1999

The Flame of Love

If with the flame of love I shine
Beyond the measure that is seen on earth
And overwhelm the power of your eyes,
Be not astounded; since the reason is
My perfect sight, which as it apprehends
Moves closer to the apprehended good.
For in you intellect I clearly see
Already shining the eternal light,
Which, when it has been seen, is such that it
Alone and always lights the fire of love.



Dante Alighieri
The Divine Comedy
Early 14th century