It is not that river women are all
things to all people; just that your menfolk
feel far too free with them. Even a small,
slow brook is described in terms to evoke
a kept mistress. Let me tell you: you know
nothing about a river woman’s heart.
Her sands, her deltas, even the willow
who loves her; only a cad and blackheart
would try and describe the secrets shown him.
Naiads of bubbling, rolling rivers
might let their mortal lovers try and swim
their depths, but don’t talk about their waters.
Do not betray her trust, her love supreme;
or brag when your lover is a wild stream.