Garcilaso de la Vega (1491-1536) was one of the greatest exponents of the Spanish Golden Age. Many of his poetic compositions reflect the poet's passion for his beloved Isabel Freyre, whose death affected him deeply.

...

I was born only to love you;

My soul has cut you to its own measure;

By the habit of my soul I love you.

All that I have I confess I owe you;

For you I was born, for you I have life,

For you I must die, and for you I die.

Header Image:

Portrait of Garcilaso de la Vega. Source: zendalibros.com