Close by You

Celebrate the beauty of lifelong love with this heartfelt soulmate poem.

Love is often found in the little things, quiet moments, shared memories, and simply being together. Strickland Gillilan's poem, Close by You, reflects the beauty of a soulmate connection. It is not about grand events or perfect days, but about the joy and comfort of sitting side by side and sharing life's seasons together.

This poem reminds us that true love can grow deeper with time as we cherish the everyday moments spent with the one who feels like home.

The sweetest fate that I can comprehend is that I may stay quiet, somewhere, close by you.

Updated September 24, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

Close by You

Some day beside you on the porch I'll sit
And slowly turn my head as folks go by;
The shadows of the wind-stirred vine may flit
About me there unnoticed of my eye;
I shall be filled with measureless content,
Nor care if skies be overcast or blue;
No restlessness with pleasure will be blent
If I may sit those dear, dear days with you.

There may be roses blooming by the porch;
There may be morning-glories on the wall;
The hollyhock may flaunt his garish torch —
Yet should they not, I'd see and scent them all;
For in the years we've traveled side by side
We've watched and loved these bonny things together;
Their perfume and their color shall abide
Deep in our lives, though wintry be the weather.

Why should I think upon some Heaven that lies
Beyond this life we've known and still shall know?
I want its lovelinesses to surprise
My earth-trained vision, when I homeward go;
The sweetest fate that I can comprehend
Is that, throughout the years that shall ensue
Between life's middle and its mist-veiled end,
I may stay quiet, somewhere, close by you.

Key Reflections In This Poem

  • Love Is Found In Simple Moments

    Love does not always need grand gestures or special occasions. Some of its most meaningful moments are found simply in being together and enjoying each other's company.

  • Shared Memories Become Treasures

    The years we spend with someone we love leave us with memories that remain close to our hearts. Even ordinary moments can become precious when they are shared with someone special.

  • True Love Endures Life's Changing Seasons

    Life brings both bright days and difficult ones, yet lasting love remains through them all. The poem reminds us of the comfort that comes from facing life's changes together.

  • Growing Older Together Is A Gift

    There is something beautiful about imagining the years ahead beside the person we love. Companionship becomes even more meaningful as two people continue sharing life's journey.

  • Being Close Can Be Enough

    The poet's greatest wish is not for wealth or excitement, but simply to remain close to the one he loves. His words remind us that contentment can often be found in the presence of someone who means everything to us.


Conclusion

Close by You reminds us that the deepest love is often found in the quietest moments. It is not built on grand promises alone, but on shared days, lasting devotion, and the comfort of simply being near the one you love. Strickland Gillilan’s words capture the beauty of a bond that grows stronger through time, making this poem a gentle and meaningful tribute to true soulmate love.