"A Reply to Raleigh, In Defense of the Expression of Love"

(late period, pardon beseeched for the out-of-persona anachronism)

My passion is not as a shallow stream,
Nor is it as the ocean, deep and dumb;
It makes no murmur, but its roarings seem
As from a lofty waterfall they come.

The flow of words, I do discover’s
The greatest gift given to lovers
Who with a poet’s heart have been so blessed:
Their passion multiplies their talents thus,
That in their works their love may be expressed.

Love’s not lowered, when we it discuss;
Instead it but honored is the more,
As a mystery worthy to explore.

Deep water ever still and silent is,
But stillness brings stagnation unto love,
And stagnant water brings forth illnesses
As frustration may to hatred move
A heart that cannot nurture love’s root,
and lacks energy to produce fruit.

Therefore my loving shall not lack for flower,
As it is like the waterfall--not deep--
But high and plenteous in useful power
That is harnessed in its downward leap.

Love is a song;  that be as it should:
Well-sung love bodes loved ones greater good.