Two bits from Kamala Das (Das)

We have spent our youth in gentle sinning
Exchanging some insubstantial love and
Often thought we were hurt, but no pain in
Us could remain, no bruise could scar or
Even slightly mar our cold loveliness.

Kamala Das, from "The Descendants"

Ask me why life is short and love is
Shorter still, ask me what is bliss and what its price.

Kamala Das, from "The Stone Age"