The Yale Anthology of Twentieth-Century French Poetry

CATHERINE POZZI

work. Born to a wealthy Parisian family, Pozzi frequented the salons of the time.

When she learned in 1910 that she had contracted tuberculosis, she threw herself

into the study of philosophy, religion, math, and science, receiving her bachelor’s

degree in 1918. In 1920 Pozzi and Valéry broke o√ their relationship. As a result,

she lost many of her former friends and contacts, which marked the beginning of

a slow decline in her health. Principal works: Agnès, 1927; Mesures, 1935; Oeuvres

poétiques, 1988.

Nyx

For Louise also from Lyon and Italy

Oh you my nights, oh dark awaited
Oh country proud, oh secrets lasting
Oh long gazing, oh thundering clouds
Oh flight allowed beyond closed skies.

Oh great desire, oh wide surprise
Oh lovely traverse of the enchanted mind
Oh worst of worst, oh grace descended
Oh opened door none had passed through

I don’t know why I die and drown
Before I enter that eternal sojourn.
I don’t know of what I am the prey.
I don’t know of whom I am the love.
—mary ann caws