Lyrics Harmonium: Negative Love - John Adams

No.
Never.)
I NEVER stoop'd so low, as they Which on an eye, cheek, lip,
Can prey; Seldom to them which soar no
Higher Than virtue, or the mind to admire.
For sense and understanding may Know what gives fuel to their fire;
My love, though silly, is more brave;
For may I miss, whene'er I crave, If I know yet what I would have.
If that be simply perfectest,
Which can by no way be express'd But negatives, my love is so.
To all, which all love, I say no.
If any who deciphers best,
What we know not—ourselves—can know, Let him teach me that nothing.
This As yet my ease and comfort is, Though I speed not, I cannot miss.