The poem Self-Conflict (I' Vo Pensando, E Nel Pensier M' Assale) by Francesco Petrarca explores the internal struggle of a person who is torn between their desire for love and their fear of rejection. The speaker in the poem expresses his longing for a woman he loves but also acknowledges that pursuing her could lead to heartbreak. Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with these conflicting emotions and ultimately decides to take a chance on love despite the risks involved.
By Francesco Petrarca · First published 1342 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious