Alabaster

LIKE this alabaster box whose art 

Is frail as a cassia-flower, is my heart, 

Carven with delicate dreams and wrought 

With many a subtle and exquisite thought.

Therein I treasure the spice and scent 

Of rich and passionate memories blent 

Like odours of cinnamon, sandal and clove, 

Of song and sorrow and life and love.