i am not what you supposed, but far different

But just possibly with you on a high hill, first watching lest any

person for miles around approach unawares,

Or possibly with you sailing at sea, or on the beach of the sea or

some quiet island,

Here to put your lips upon mine I permit you,

With the comrade’s long-dwelling kiss or the new husband’s kiss,

For I am the new husband and I am the comrade.

Text: Walt Whitman,
Whoever You Are Holding Me Now in Hand (excerpt), 1881-82

Image: Subjects, photographer unknown,
via miss magnolia thunderpussy/ipernity