The Moon Rising

The preface to "Moonrise" says: "Moonrise" is a poem satirizing the love of beauty. Those in power do not uphold virtue but instead delight in physical beauty.

The moon rises, bright and clear—

How lovely is that fair one!

Her gentle step, so graceful and fine—

It stirs anxious longing in my heart.

The moon rises, radiant and white—

How charming is that fair one!

Her gentle step, so tender and moving—

It stirs restless worry in my heart.

The moon rises, shining with splendor—

How dazzling is that fair one!

Her gentle step, so light and exquisite—

It stirs deep pain and sorrow in my heart.

"Moonrise" has three stanzas, each with four lines.