I came across this poem by Emily Dickinson while I am doing some research on the Lusitania for the novel I am writing on Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. I confess I have never read any of her work; in fact, for many American writers of the last century and contemporary ones, I have no knowledge. Discovering one is like finding a forget-me-not in a sea of green grass: a striking small beauty that delights with its vibrant blue.

So here it is:

“Proof” by Emily Dickinson

That I did always love,
I bring thee proof:
That till I loved
I did not love enough.

That I shall love always,
offer thee
That love is life,
And life hath immortality. 

This, dost thou doubt, sweet?
Then have I
Nothing to show
But Calvary.