Lewis Alexander, "Transformation" (1927)
I BETURN the bitterness,
Which you gave to me;
When I wanted loveliness
Tantalant and free.
I return the bitterness
It is washed by tears;
Now it is a loveliness
Garnished through the years.
I return it loveliness,
Having made it so;
For I wore the bitterness
From it long ago.
Published in Caroling Dusk, 1927
Also published in Opportunity, June 1927