Love conquers all . . . but not always

Back in the good old Roman days, the poet Virgil invented the phrase: Omnia Vincit Amor . . . Love Conquers All. Geoffrey Chaucer picked it up for “The Canterbury Tales,” slightly altering the word order (Amor Vincit Omnia) but retaining the meaning: that Love can overcome all obstacles. Nice if that were true, but then we’d lose some interesting poetry about those very obstacles. In a previous column, we quoted the lyricist Ira Gershwin with brother George celebrating an unexpected entry of love: Love walked right in and drove the shadows away; Love walked right in and brought my sunniest day. One magic moment, and my heart seemed to know That love said “Hello!” — Though not a word was spoken. Thereafter, they continued: It’s very clear Our love is here to stay; Not for a year, But ever and a day. In time the Rockies may crumble, Gibraltar may tumble (There’re only made of clay) But — our love is here to stay. * * * * * * Here to stay?

This excerpt comes from the named source. Read the original for the full reporting.