It was in my mind today, and I realized that as a young person I never really understood the depth of the poem, which is talking about love between older people in their autumn years who may still experience a great flaming up of passion, even while staring the inevitable winter in the face.I haven't tried to render it in verse form -- just wanted to share the thoughts.
All Souls' Day
Place the fragrant mignonettes on the table -- the last red asters, bring them here too,
and let's speak again of love, as we did once in May.
Give me your hand, that I may press it in secret -- and if anyone sees, it's all the same to me.
Give me just one of your sweet glances, as you did once in May . . .
Every grave is blooming and fragrant today. One day in the year even the dead are free --
Come to my heart, that I may have you again, as I did once in May.