Sonnet on Fidelity, translated by E. R. Henriques

First and foremost, I will look to my love
With such care, always and so much,
That even in face of the greatest beauty
My thought should be more charmed by my love.

I want to live this love in each vain moment
And in its honor I will spread my song
And smile a smile and shed my tears
In moments of sorrow or contentment.

And, thus, later on, when seeking for me
Perhaps death, the anguish of those who live
Perhaps loneliness, end for those who love

I can tell myself of the love (I’ve had):
It mustn’t be immortal, for it’s a flame
But it must be infinite while it lasts.