Thoumeaning，couldstthousee，Ofallwhichdafteththee；
Soplain，Itmocksthypain；
StoneoftheLawindeed，Thineownselfcouldstthouread；
ThyblissWithintheeis。
CompostofHeavenandmire，Slowfootandswiftdesire!
Lo，TohaveYes，chooseNo；
Gird，andthoushaltunbind；
Seeknot，andthoushaltfind；
Toeat，Denythymeat；
AndthoushaltbefulfilledWithallsweetthingsunwilled：
SobestGodlovestojestWithchildrensmall——afreakOfheavenlyhide—and—seekFitForthywaywardwit，WhoartthyselfathingOfwhimandwavering；
FreeWhenHiswingspenthee；
Solefullyblest，tofeelGodwhistletheeatheel；
DrunkupAsadew—drop，WhenHebendsdown，sun—wise，Intemperableeyes；
Mostproud，Whenutterlybowed。
TofeelthyselfandbeHisdearnonentity——
CaughtBeyondhumanthoughtInthethunder—spoutofHim，Untilthybeingdim，AndbeDeaddeathlessly。
Stoop，stoop；forthoudostfearThenettle’swrathfulspear，SoslightArtthouofmight!
Rise；forHeavenhathnofrownWhenthoutotheepluck’stdown，Strongclod!
TheneckofGod。
ASSUMPTAMARIA。
’Thouneedstnotsingnewsongs，butsaytheold。’——COWLEY。
Mortals，thatbeholdaWoman，Rising’twixttheMoonandSun；
WhoamItheheavensassume？anAllamI，andIamone。
MultitudinousascendI，Dreadfulasabattlearrayed，ForIbearyouwhithertendI；
YeareI：beundismayed!
I，theArkthatforthegravenTablesoftheLawwasmade；
Man’sownheartwasone，oneHeaven，Bothwithinmywombwerelaid。
ForthereAnteroswithErosHeavenwithmanconjoin—edwas，——
Twin—stoneoftheLaw，Ischyros，AgiosAthanatos。
I，theflesh—girtParadisesGardeneredbytheAdamnew，Daintiedo’erwithsweetdevicesWhichHeloveth，forHegrew。
I，theboundlessstrictsavannahWhichGod’sleapingfeetgothrough；
I，theheavenwhencetheManna，WearyIsrael，slidonyou!
HetheAnterosandEros，Ithebody，HetheCross；
Heupbearethme，Ischyros，AgiosAthanatos!
IamDaniel’smysticMountain，Whencethemightystonewasrolled；
IamthefourRivers’fountain，WateringParadiseofold；
Clouddown—rainingtheJustOneam，DanaeoftheShowerofGold；
ItheHosteloftheSunam；
HetheLamb，andItheFold。
HetheAnterosandEros，Ithebody，HetheCross；
Heisfasttome，Ischyros，AgiosAthanatos!
I，thepresence—hallwhereAngelsDoenwheeltheirplac—edKing——
Evenmythoughtswhich，withoutchangeelse，Cyclicburnandcyclicsing。
TothehollowofHeaventransplanted，IabreathingEdenspring，WherewithvenomalloutpantedLiestheslimedCurseshrivelling。
ForthebrazenSerpentclearonThatoldfang—edknowledgeshone；
ItoWisdomrise，Ischyron，AgionAthanaton!
SeeinhighestheavenpavilionedNowthemaidenHeavenrest，Themany—breastedskyout—millionedBythesplendoursofhervest。
Lo，theArkthisholytideisTheun—handmadeTemple’sguest，AndthedarkEgyptianbrideisWhitelytotheSpouse—Heartprest!
HetheAnterosandEros，NailmetoThee，sweetestCross!
Heisfasttome，Ischyros，AgiosAthanatos!
’Tellme，tellme，OBelov—ed，WhereThoudostinmid—dayfeed!
Formywanderingsarereprov—ed，Andmyheartissaltwithneed。’
’ThineownselfnotspellestGodin，Northelispingpapyrusreed？
Followwheretheflockshavetrodden，Followwheretheshepherdslead。’
He，theAnterosandEros，MountsmeinAEgypticcar，Twin—yoked；leadingme，Ischyros，TremblingtotheuntemptedFar。
’Makemechainlets，silvern，golden，Ithatsowshallsurelyreap；
WhileasyetmySpouseisholdenLikeaLioninmountainedsleep。’
’Makeherchainlets，silvern，golden，Shehathsownandsheshallreap；
Lookuptothemountainsolden，Whencehelpcomeswithlionedleap。’
BywhatgushedthebitterSpearon，Pain，whichsundered，makethone；
CrucifiedtoHim，Ischyron，AgionAthanaton!
ThencommandedandspaketomeHewhoframedallthingsthatbe；
AndmyMakerenteredthroughme，InmytentHisresttookHe。
Lo!Hestandeth，SpouseandBrother；
ItoHim，andHetome，WhoupraisedmewheremymotherFell，beneaththeapple—tree。
Risen’twixtAnterosandEros，BloodandWater，MoonandSun，Heupbearsme，HeIschyros，IbearHim，theAthanaton!
WhereislaidtheLordarisen？
Inthelightwewalkingloom；
Thoughthesunhasbursthisprison，Weknownothisbiding—room。
TelluswheretheLordsojourneth，Forwefindanemptytomb。
’WhenceHesprung，thereHereturneth，MysticSun，——theVirgin’sWomb。’
HiddenSun，Hisbeamssonearus，CloudenpillaredasHewasFromofold，thereHe，Ischyros，Waitsoursearch，Athanatos。
WhowillgiveHimmeforbrother，Countedofmyfamily，SuckingthesweetbreastsofmyMother？——
IHisflesh，andmineisHe；
TomyBreadmyselfthebreadis，AndmyWinedothdrinkme：see，Hislefthandbeneathmyheadis，Hisrighthandembracethme!
SweetestAnterosandEros，Lo，herarmsHeleansacross；
Deadthatwedienot，stoopedtorearus，ThanatosAthanatos。
WhoisShe，incandidvesture，Rushingupfromoutthebrine？
TreadingwithresilientgestureAir，andwiththatCupdivine？
Sheinusandweinherare，BeatingGodward：allthatpine，Lo，awonderandaterror!
TheSunhathblushedtheSeatoWine!
HetheAnterosandEros，ShetheBrideandSpirit；forNowthedaysofpromisenearus，AndtheSeashallbenomore。
Openwidethygates，OVirgin，ThattheKingmayenterthee!
Atallgatestheclangoursgurgein，God’spaludamentlightens，see!
CampofAngels!WellweevenOfthisthingmaydoubtfulbe，——
IfthouartassumedtoHeaven，OrisHeavenassumedtothee!
Consummatum。Christthepromised，Thymaidenrealmiswon，OStrong!
SincetosuchsweetKingdomcomest，Rememberme，poorThiefofSong!
Cadentfailsthestarsalong：—
Mortals，thatbeholdawomanRising’twixttheMoonandSun；
WhoamItheheavensassume？anAllamI，andIamone。
THEAFTERWOMAN。
DaughteroftheancientEve，Weknowthegiftsyegave——andgive。
WhoknowsthegiftswhichYOUshallgive，DaughterofthenewerEve？
You，ifmysoulbeaugur，youShall——Owhatshallyounot，Sweet，do？
Thecelestialtraitressplay，Andallmankindtoblissbetray；
WithsacrosanctcajoleriesAndstarrytreacheryofyoureyes，TemptusbacktoParadise!
Makeheavenlytrespass；——ay，pressinWherefaintthefledge—footseraphin，BlestFool!Beensignofourwars，Andshameusalltowarriors!
Unbanneryourbrightlocks，——advanceGirl，theirgildedpuissance，I’themysticvaward，anddrawonAfterthelovelygonfalonUstoout—follytheexcessOfyoursweetfoolhardiness；
ToadventurelikeintenseAssaultagainstOmnipotence!
Givemesong，asSheis，new，Earthshouldturnintimethereto!
New，andnew，andthricesonew，Alloldsweets，NewSweet，meantyou!
Fair，Ihadadreamofthee，Whenmyyoungheartbeatprophecy，AndinapparitionelateThylittlebreastsknewwax—edgreat，SisteroftheCanticle，AndtheeforGodgrownmarriageable。
Howmydesiredesiredyourday，That，wheeledinrumouronitsway，Shookmethuswithpresentience!ThenEden’sloppedtreeshallshootagain：
ForwhoChrist’seyesshallmiss，withthoseEyesforevidentnuncios？
OrwhobetardytoHiscallInyouraccentsaugural？
WhoshallnotfeeltheHeavenshidImpend，attrembleofyourlid，AnddivineadventshineavowedUnderthatdimandlucidcloud；
Yea，’forethesilverapocalypseFail，attheunsealingofyourlips？
WhentoloveYOUis（OChrist’sSpouse!）
TolovethebeautyofHishouse；
ThencometheIsaiandays；theoldShalldream；andouryoungmenbeholdVision——yea，thevisionofThabormount，Whichnonetoothershallrecount，Becauseinallmen’sheartsshallbeTheseeingandtheprophecy。
ForendedistheMysteryPlay，WhenChristislife，andyoutheway；
WhenEgypt’sspoilsareIsrael’sright，AndDayfulfilsthemarriedarmsofNight。
Butheremylipsarestill。
UntilYouandthehourshallberevealed，Thissongissungandsungnot，anditswordsaresealed。
GRACEOFTHEWAY。
’Mybrother!’spakeshetothesun；
ThekindredkissesofthestarsWerehers；herfeetweresetuponThemoon。IfslumbersolvedthebarsOfsense，orsensetranspicuousgrownFulfill—edseeinguntosight，Iknownot；norif’twasmyownIngatheredselfthatmadehernight。
Thewindytrammelofherdress，Herblownlocks，tookmysoulinmesh；
God’sbreaththeyspake，withvisiblenessThatstirredtheraimentofherflesh：
Andsensible，asherblownwere，BeyondtheprecinctsofherformIfeltthewomanflowfromher——
Acalmofintempestuousstorm。
Ifailedagainsttheaffluenttide；
OutofthisabjectearthofmeIwastranslatedandenskiedIntotheheavenly—regionedShe。
NowofthatvisionIbereavenThisknowledgekeep，thatmaynotdim：—
ShortarmneedsmantoreachtoHeaven，SoreadyisHeaventostooptohim。
Whichsets，tomeasureofman’sfeet，NoalienTreefortrysting—place；
Andwhocanread，mayreadthesweetDirectioninhisLady’sface。
Andpassandpassthedailycrowd，Unwares，occultedParadise；
Lovethelostplotcriessilver—loud，Noranyknowthetonguehecries。
Thelightisinthedarkness，andThedarknessdothnotcomprehend：
Godhathnohaste；andGod’ssonsstandYetaDay，tarryingfortheend。
DishonouredRahabstillhathhid，Yeastill，withinherhouseofshame，ThemessengersbyJesusbidForerunthecomingofHisName。
TheWordwasflesh，andcrucified，Fromthebeginning，andblasphemed：
Itsprofanedraimentmendivide，Damnedbywhat，reverenced，hadredeemed。
ThyLady，wasthyheartnotblind，OnehourgavetothywitlesstrustThekeythougo’stabouttofind；
Andthouhastdroppeditinthedust。
Ofher，theWay’sonemortalgrace，Own，savethyseeingbeallforgot，Thattruly，Godwasinthisplace，Andthou，unbless—ed，knew’stitnot。
Butsomehaveeyes，andwillnotsee；
Andsomewouldsee，andhavenoteyes；
Andfailthetryst，yetfindtheTree，Andtakethelessonfortheprize。
RETROSPECT。
Alas，andIhavesungMuchsongofmattersvain，Andaheaven—sweetenedtongueTurnedtounprofitingstrainOfvacantthings，whichthoughEvensotheybe，andthroughlyso，Itisnobootatallfortheetoknow，Butbabbleandfalsepain。
WhatprofitifthesunPutforthhisradiantthews，Andonhiscircuitrun，Evenaftermydevice，tothisandtothatuse；
AndthetrueOrient，Christ，MakenotHiscloudofthee？
Ihavesungvanity，Andnothingwelldevised。
AndthoughthecryofstarsGivetonguebeforehiswayGoldenlyasIsay，AndeachfromwideSaturnustohotMarsHecallethbyitsname，Lestthatitsbrightfeetstray；
Andthouhaveloreofall，ButtothineownSun’scallThypathdisorbedhastneverwittotame；
Itprofitsnotwithal，Andmyredeisbutlame。
Onlythat，’midvainvauntOfwisdomignorant，AlittlekissuponthefeetofLoveMyhastyversehasstayedSometimesaspacetoplant：
Ithasnotwhollystrayed，Notwhollymissednearsweet，fanningproudplumesabove。
ThereforeIdorepentThatwithreligionvain，Andmisconceiv—edpain，IhavemymusicbentTowasteonbootlessthingsitsskiey—genderedrain：
YetshallawiserdayFulfilmoreheavenlyway，Andwithapprov—edmusicclearthisslipItrustinGodmostsweet；
Meantimethesilentlip，Meantimetheclimbingfeet。
ANARROWVESSEL。
Beingalittledramaticsequenceontheaspectofprimitivegirl—
naturetowardsalovebeyonditscapacities。
AGIRL’SSIN。
I。——Inhereyes。
Crosschild!red，andfrowningso？
’I，thedayjustover，Gavealockofhairto——no!
HowDAREyousay，mylover？’
Heaskedyou？——Letmeunderstand；
Come，child，letmesoundit!
’Ofcourse，heWOULDhaveaskedit，and——
Andso——somehow——he——foundit。
’Hetolditoutwithgreatloudeyes——
Menhavesuchlittlewit!
HissinIeverwillchastiseBecauseIgavehimit。
’Shamelessinmethegift，alas!
Inhimhisopenbliss：
ButfortheprivilegehehasAthousandheshallmiss!
’Hiseyes，whereonceIdreadlesslaughed，Callupaburningblot：
Ihatehim，forhisshamefulcraftThataskedbyaskingnot!’
Lucklessboy!andallforhairHeneverasked，yousaid？
’Notjust——butthenhegazed——IswearHegazeditfrommyhead!
’HissilenceonmycheeklikebreathIfeltinsubtleway；
MoresweetthanaughtanothersaithWaswhathedidnotsay。
’He’llthinkmevanquished，forthislapse，Whoshouldbeabovehim；
Perhapshe’llthinkmelight；perhaps——
Perhapshe’llthinkI——lovehim!
’Arehiseyesconsciousandelate，IhatehimthatIblush；
Oraretheyinnocent，stillIhate——
Theymeanathing’stohush。
’Beforehenoughtamisscoulddo，Nowallthingsshowamiss；
’Twasallmyfault，Iknowthattrue，Butallmyfaultwashis。
’Ihatehimforhismutedistress，’Tisinsultheshouldcare!
Becausemyheart’sallhumbleness，Allprideisinmyair。
’Withhim，eachfavourthatIdoIsboldsuit’shallowingtext；
Eachgiftabastionlevelled，toThenextoneandthenext。
’EachwishwhosegrantmayhimbefallIscloggedbythosewithstood；
Hetrembles，hopingonemeansall，AndI，lestperhapsitshould。
’BehindmepiecemealgiftsIcast，Myfleeingselftosave；
Andthat’sthethingmustgoatlast，Forthat’sthethinghe’dhave。
’Mylocktheenforc—edsteeldidgrateTocut；itsroot—thrillscameDowntomybosom。ItmightsateHislustformypoorshame!
’HissifteddaintythisshouldbeForascoreambrosialyears!
ButhistoomuchhumilityAlarumsmewithfears。
’MygraciousgraceabreachhecountsForgracelessescalade；
And，thoughhe’ssilenterehemounts，Mywatchisnotbetrayed。
’Myhearthidesfrommysoulhe’ssweet：
Ahdread，ifhedivine!
Onetouch，Imightfallathisfeet，Andhemightrisefrommine。
’Tohearhimpraisemyeyes’browngleamsWasnative，safedelight；
Butnowitusurpationseems，BecauseI’vegivenhimright。
’BeforeI’dhavehimnotremove，Nowwouldnothavehimnear；
WithsacrificeIcalledonLove，Andtheapparition’sFear。’
Foolishtogiveit!——’Twasmywhim，Whenhemightpartedbe，TothinkthatIshouldstaybyhimInalittlepieceofme。
’Healwayssaidmyhairwassoft——
Whattoucheshewillsteal!
Eachtouchandlook（andhe’lllookoft）
IalmostthoughtI’dfeel。
’Andthen，whenfirsthesawthehair，Tothinkhisdearamazement!
Asifhewishedfromskiesastar，Andfounditinhiscasement。
’He’skissthelock——andIhadtoyedWithdreameddelightofthis：
Butah，inproof，delightwasvoid——
IcouldnotSEEhiskiss!’
So，fondone，halfthisagonyWerespared，whichmyhandhushes，Couldyouhaveplayed，Sweet，thesweetspy，Andblushednotforyourblushes!
AGIRL’SSIN。
II。——Inhiseyes。
CanIforgethercrueltyWho，brownmiracle，gaveyoume？
OrwithunmoistedeyesthinkonTheproudsurrenderovergone，（Lowliheadinhaughtydress），Ofthetendertyranness？
Anderethouformyjoywasgiven，Howroughtheroadtothatblestheaven!
WithwhatpangsIfore—expiatedThycoldoutlawryfromherhead；
HowwasItrampledandbroughtlow，Becausehervirginneckwasso；
HowthralledbeneaththejealousstateShestoodatpointtoabdicate；
Howsacrificed，beforetomeShesacrificedherprideandthee；
Howdidshe，strugglingtoabaseHerselftodomestrange，sweetgrace，EnforceunwittingmetoshareHerthroesandabjectnesswithher；
ThenceheighteningthathourwhenherloverHergrace，withtrembling，shoulddiscover，AndinadoringtroublebeHumbledatherhumility!
AndwithwhatpitilessnesswasI
Afterslain，topacifyTheuneasymanesofhershame，Herhauntingblushes!——Minetheblame：
WhatfairinjusticedidIrueForwhatI——didnottemptherto？
NoraughtthejudgingmaidmightwinMetoassoilfromHERsweetsin。
ButnoughtwereextremepunishmentForthatbeyond—divinecontent，Whenmywith—thee—first—giddiedeyesStoopederetheirdueonParadise!
OhourofconsternatingblissWhenIheavenedmeinthykiss；
Thysoftness（daringovermuch!）
Profan—edwithmylicensedtouch；
Worshipped，withtears，onhappyknee，Herdoubt，hertrust，hershynessfree，Hertimorousaudacity!
LOVEDECLARED。
Ilooked，shedrooped，andneitherspake，andcold，Westood，howunlikeallforecastedthoughtOfthatdesir—edminute!ThenIleanedDoubting；whereatshelifted——oh，braveeyesUnfrighted：——forwardlikeawind—blownflameCamebosomandmouthtomine!
ThatfallingkissTouchinglong—laidexpectance，allwentupSuddenlyintopassion；yea，thenightCaught，blazed，andwraptusroundinvibrantfire。
Time’sbeatingwingsubsided，andthewindsCaughtuptheirbreathing，andtheworld’sgreatpulseStayedinmid—throb，andthewildtrainoflifeReeledby，andleftusstrandedonahush。
ThismomentisastatueuntoLoveCarvedfromafairwhitesilence。
Lo，hestandsWithinus——arewenotonenow，one，oneroof，Hisroof，andthepartitionofweakfleshGonedownbeforehim，andnomore，forever？——
Standslikeabirdnew—lit，andashelit，Poisedinourquietbeing；only，onlyWithinourshakenheartstheairofpassion，Cleftbyhissuddencoming，eddiesstillAndwhirsroundhisenchantedmovelessness。
Afilmoftrancebetweentwostirrings!Lo，Itbursts；yetdream’ssnappedlinksclingroundthelimbsOfwaking：likearunningeveningstreamWhichnomanhears，orsees，orknowstorun，（Glazedwithdimquiet），savethattherethemoonIsshatteredtoacreamyflickerofflame，Oureyes’sweettroublewerehid，savethattheloveTremblesalittleontheirimpassionedcalms。
THEWAYOFAMAID。
TheloverwhosesoulshakenisInsomedecumanbillowofbliss，Whofeelshisgradual—wadingfeetSinkinsomesuddenhollowofsweet，And’midlove’sus—edconversecomesSharponamoodwhichalljoysums——
Aninstant’sfinecompendiumofTheliberal—leav—edwritoflove；
HisabashedpulsesbeatingthickAttheexigentjoyandquick，Isdumbed，byaimingutterancegreatUptothemiracleofhisfate。
Thewisegirl，suchIcarianfallSavedbyherconfidencethatshe’ssmall，——
AswhatnokindredwordwillfitIsutteredbestbyopposite，Loveinthetongueofhateexprest，Anddeepestanguishinajest，——
FeelingtheinfinitemustbeBestsaidbytriviality，Speaks，whereexpressionbatesitswings，Justhappy，alien，littlethings；
WhatofallwordsisinexcessImpliesinasweetnothingness，WithdailiestbabbleshowshersenseThatfullspeechwerefullimpotence；
Andwhileshefeelstheheavensliebare，Sheonlytalksaboutherhair。
BEGINNINGOFEND。
ShewasawearyofthehoveringOfLove’sincessanttumultuouswing；
Herlover’stokensshewouldanswernot——
’Twerewellsheshouldbestrangewithhimsomewhat：
Aprettybabe，thisLove，——butfieonit，Thatwouldnotsufferherlayitdownawhit!
Appointedtrystdefiantlyshebalked，Andwithherlightestcomradelightlywalked，WhoscaredthechiddenLovetohideapart，Andpeepfromsomeunnoticedcornerofherheart。
Shethoughtnotofherlover，deemitnot（Thereyonder，inthehollow，that’sHIScot），Butsheforgotnotthathewasforgot。
Shesawhimathisgate，yetstilledhertongue——
Soweakshefelther，thatshewouldfeelstrong，Andshemustpunishhimfordoinghimwrong：
Passed，unobliviousofoblivionstill；
Andifsheturneduponthebrowo’thehill，Itwassoopenly，solightlydone，Yousawshethoughthewasnotthoughtupon。
Hethroughthegatewentbackinbitterness；
Shethatnightwokeandstirred，withnodistress，Gladofherdoing，——seduloustobeglad，Lestperhapsherfoolishheartsuspectthatitwassad。
PENELOPE。
Love，likeawind，shookwideyourblosmyeyes，Youtrembled，andyourbreathcamesobbing—wiseForthatyoulovedme。
Youweresokind，sosweet，nonecouldwithholdToadore，butthatyouweresostrange，socold；
Forthatyoulovedme。
LiketoaboxofspikenarddidyoubreakYourheartaboutmyfeet。Whatwordsyouspake!
Forthatyoulovedme。
Lifefelltodustwithoutme；soyoutriedAllcarefullestwaystodrivemefromyourside，Forthatyoulovedme。
Yougaveyourselfaschildrengive，thatweepAndsnatchback，with——’Imeantyounottokeep!’
Forthatyoulovedme。
Iamnowoman，girl，noreverknewThatlovecouldteachallwaysthathatecoulddoToherthatlovedme。
Havelessoflove，orlessofwomaninYourlove，orlossmayevenfromthisbegin——
Thatyousoloveme。
For，wildPenelope，thewebyouwoveYoustillunweave，unlovingallyourlove；
Isthistoloveme，OrwhatrightshaveIthatscorncoulddeny？
Evenofyourlove，alas，poorLovemustdie，Ifsoyouloveme!
THEENDOFIT。
Shedidnotlovetolove；buthatedhimFormakinghertolove，andsoherwhimFrompassiontaughtmisprisiontobegin；
AndallthissinWasbecauselovetocastouthadnoskillSelf，whichwasregentstill。
Herownself—willmadevoidherownself’swillEPILOGUE。
IfIhavestudiedhereinpartAtaleasoldasmaiden’sheart，’TisthatIdoseehereinShadowofmorepiteoussin。
She，thatbutgivingpart，notwhole，Tookeventhepartback，istheSoul：
Andthatsodisdain—edLover——
Bestunthought，sinceLoveisover。
Lovetoinvite，desire，andfear，AndLove’sexactionscosttoodearCountforLove’spossession，——ah，Thyway，miseraAnima!
Togivethepledge，andyetbepinedThatapledgeshouldhaveforcetobind，This，OSoul，toooftenstillIstherecreanceofthywill!
OutofLove’sarmstomakefondchain，And，becausestrugglebringethpain，HateLoveforLove’ssweetconstraint，IsthewayofSoulsthatfaint。
SuchaSoul，forsaddestend，FindsLovethefoeinLovethefriend；
And——ah，griefincredible!——
TreadsthewayofHeaven，toHell。
MISCELLANEOUSODES。
ODETOTHESETTINGSUN。
PRELUDE。
ThewailfulsweetnessoftheviolinFloatsdownthehush—edwatersofthewind，Theheart—stringsofthethrobbingharpbeginTolonginachingmusic。Spirit—pined，Inwaftsthatpoignantsweetnessdrifts，untilThewoundedsouloozesadness。Theredsun，Abubbleoffire，dropsslowlytowardthehill，Whileonebirdprattlesthatthedayisdone。
OsettingSun，thatasinreverentdaysSinkestinmusictothysmooth—edsleep，Discrownedofhomage，thoughyetcrownedwithrays，Hymnednotatharvestmore，thoughreapersreap：
Fortheethismusicwakesnot。Odeceived，IfthouhearinthesethoughtlessharmoniesApiousphantomofadoringsreaved，Andechooffairancientflatteries!
Yet，inthisfieldwheretheCrossplantedreigns，IknownotwhatstrangepassionbowsmyheadTothee，whosegreatcommanduponmyveinsProvestheeagodformenotdead，notdead!
Forworshipitistooincredulous，Fordoubt——oh，toobelieving—passionate!
WhatwilddivinitymakesmyheartthusAfountofmostbaptismaltears？——ThystraightLongbeamliessteadyontheCross。Ahme!
Whatsecretwouldthyradiantfingershow？
Ofthybrightmastershipisthisthekey？
IsTHISthysecret，then？Andisitwoe？
Flingfromthineeartheburningcurls，andharkAsongthouhastnotheardinNorthernday；
ForRometoodaring，andforGreecetoodark，Sweetwithwildwingsthatpass，thatpassaway!
ODE。
AlphaandOmega，sadnessandmirth，Thespringingmusic，anditswastingbreath——
ThefairestthingsinlifeareDeathandBirth，AndofthesetwothefairerthingisDeath。
MysticaltwinsofTimeinseparable，Theyoungerhaththeholierarray，Andhaththeawfullersway：
Itisthefallingstarthattrailsthelight，Itisthebreakingwavethathaththemight，Thepassingshowerthatrainbowsmaniple。
Isitnotso，Othoudown—strickenDay，Thatdraw’stthysplendoursroundtheeinthyfall？
HighwasthineEasternpompinaugural；
Butthoudostsetinstatelierpageantry，Laudedwithtumultsofafirmament：
Thyvisiblemusic—blastsmakedeafthesky，ThycymbalsclangtofiretheOccident，Thoudostthydyingsotriumphally：
ISEEthecrimsonblaringofthyshawms!
WhydothoselucentpalmsStrewthyfeet’sfailingthicklierthantheirmight，Whodostbuthoodthygloriouseyeswithnight，Andvextheheelsofalltheyesterdays？
Lo!thisloud，lackeyingpraiseWillstaybehindtogreettheusurpingmoon，Whentheyhavecloud—barredovertheetheWest。
Oh，shakethebrightdustfromthypartingshoon!
Theearthnotpaeansthee，norservesthyhest，BegoddednotbyHeaven!avertthyface，AndleavetoblankdisgraceTheobliviousworld!unsceptretheeofstateandplace!
Ha!butbethinktheewhatthougazedston，EreyetthesnakeDecayhadvenomedtooth；
Thenamethoubar’stinthosevastseasonsgone——
CandidHyperion，Cladinthelightofthineimmortalyouth!
EreDionysusbledthyvines，OrArtemisdraveherclamoursthroughthewood，Thousaw’sthowonceagainstOlympus’heightThebrawnyTitansstood，Andshookthegods’world’bouttheirears，andhowEnceladus（whomEtnacumbersnow）
ShoulderedmePelionwithitsswingingpines，Theriverunrecked，thatdiditsbrokenfloodSpurtonhisback：beforethemountainousshockTherank—edgodsdislock，Scaredtotheirskies；wideo’errout—tramplednightFlewspurnedthepebbledstars：thosesplendoursthenHadtempestedonearth，staruponstarMoundedinruin，ifalongerwarHadquakedOlympusandcold—fearingmen。
ThendidtheamplemargeAndcircuitofthytargeSullenlyreddenallthevawardfight，AbovetheblusterousclashWheeledthyswungfalchion’sflashAndhewedtheirforcesintosplinteredflight。
YetereOlympusthouwast，andagod!
Thoughwedenythynod，Wecannotspoiltheeofthydivinity。
Whatknowweelderthanthee？
Whenthoudidst，burstingfromthegreatvoid’shusk，Leaplikealiononthethroato’thedusk；
Whentheangelsrose—chapletedSangeachtoother，ThevaultedblazeoverheadOftheirvastpinionsspread，Hailingtheebrother；
Howchaosrolledbackfromthewonder，AndtheFirstMornkneltdowntothyvisageofthunder!
ThoudidstdrawtothysideThyyoungAuroralbride，Andliftherveilofnightandmystery；
TelluswithbabyhandsShookoffherswaddling—bands，Andfromtheunswath—edvapourslaughedtothee。
Thoutwi—formdeity，nurseatonceandsire!
Thougenitorthatallthingsnourishest!
Theearthwassuckledatthyshiningbreast，Andinherveinsisquickthymilkyfire。
Whoscarfedherwiththemorning？andwhosetUponherbrowtheday—fall’scarcanet？
Whoqueenedherfrontwiththeenronduredmoon？
Whodugnight’sjewelsfromtheirvaultymineTodowerher，pastaneasternwizard’sdreams，Whenhoveringonhimthroughhishaschish—swoon，AlltherainedgemsoftheoldTartarianlineShiverinlustrousthrobbingsoftingedflame？
WhereofamoietyinthePaolis’seamsStatelilybuildedtheirVenetianname。
Thouhastenwoof—edherAnempressoftheair，Andallherbirthsarepropertiedbythee：
HerteemingcenturiesDrewbeingfromthineeyes：
Thoufatt’stthemarrowofallquality。
Wholitthefurnaceofthemammoth’sheart？
WhoshaggedhimlikePilatus’ribb—edflanks？
WhoraisedthecolumnedranksOfthatoldpre—diluvianforestry，Whichlikeacontinenttornoppressedthesea，Whentheancientheavensdidinrainsdepart，Whilethehigh—danc—edwhirlsOfthetossedscudmadehissthydrench—edcurls？
Thourear’dsttheenormousbrood；
WhohastwithlifeimbuedThelionmanedintawnymajesty，Thetigervelvet—barred，Thestealthy—steppingpard，Andthelithepanther’sflexuoussymmetry。
Howcametheentomb—edtreealight—bearer，Thoughsunkinlightlesslair？
Friendoftheforgersofearth，Mateoftheearthquakeandthundersvolcanic，ClaspedinthearmsoftheforcesTitanicWhichrocklikeacradlethegirthOftheether—hungworld；
Swartsonoftheswarthymine，WhenflameonthebreathofhisnostrilsfeedsHowishiscountenancehalf—divine，Liketheeinthysanguineweeds？
Thougavesthimhislight，ThoughsepulturedinnightBeneaththedeadbonesofaperishedworld；
OverhisprostrateformThoughcold，andheat，andstorm，Themountainouswrackofacreationhurled。
WhomadethesplendidroseSaturatewithpurpleglows；
Cuppedtothemargewithbeauty；aperfume—pressWhencethewindvintagesGushesofwarm—edfragrancericherfarThanalltheflavorousoozeofCyprus’vats？
Lo，inyongalewhichwaveshergreencymar，WithduskycheeksburntredSheswaysherheavyhead，Drunkwiththemustofherownodorousness；
WhileinamotedtroublethevexedgnatsMaze，andvibrate，andteasethenoontidehush。
Whogirtdissolv—edlightningsinthegrape？
SummeredtheopalwithanIrisedflush？
Isitnotthouthatdostthetulipdrape，Andhuestthedaffodilly，Yetwhohastsnowedthelily，Andherfrailsister，whomthewatersname，Dostvestal—vesture’midtheblazeofJune，Coldasthenew—sprunggirlhoodofthemoonEreAutumn’skisssultryhercheekwithflame？
Thousway’stthysceptredbeamO’eralldelightanddream，Beautyisbeautifulbutinthyglance：
AndlikeajocundmaidIngarland—flowersarrayed，BeforethyarkEarthkeepshersacreddance。
Andnow，Oshakenfromthineantiquethrone，Andsunkenfromthycoeruleempery，NowthattheredglareofthyfallisblownInsmokeandflameaboutthewindysky，WherearethewailingvoicesthatshouldmeetFromhill，stream，grove，andallofmortalshapeWhotreadthygifts，invineyardsasstrayfeetPulptheglobedweightofjuicedIberia’sgrape？
Whereisthethreneo’thesea？
AndwhynotdirgestheeThewind，thatsingstohimselfashemakesstrideLonelyandterribleontheAndeanheight？
WhereistheNaiad’midherswordedsedge？
TheNymphwan—glimmeringbyherwanfount’sverge？
TheDryadattimidgazebythewood—side？
TheOreadjuttinglightOnoneup—strain—edsolefromtherock—ledge？
TheNereidtip—toeonthescudo’thesurge，Withwhistlingtressesdankathwartherface，AndallherfigurepoisedinlitheCirceangrace？
Whywitherstheirlament？
Theirtressestear—besprent，Havetheysighedhencewithtrailinggarment—gem？
Osweet，Osad，Ofair!
Icatchyourflyinghair，Drawyoureyesdowntome，anddreamonthem!
Aspace，andtheyfleetfromme。Mustyefade——
Oold，essentialcandours，yewhomadeTheearthalivingandaradiantthing——
Andleavehercorpseinourstrained，cheatedarms？
Loeverthus，whenSongwithchordedcharmsDrawsfromdulldeathhislostEurydice，Loeverthus，evenatconsummating，Evenintheswooningminutethatclaimsherhis，EvenashetremblestotheimpassionedkissOfreincarnateBeauty，hiscontrolClaspsthecoldbody，andforegoesthesoul!
WhatsolookslovelilyIsbuttherainbowonlife’sweepingrain。
Whyhavewelongingsofimmortalpain，Andallwelongformortal？Woeisme，Andallourchantsbutchapletsomedecay，Asminethisvanishing——nay，vanishedDay。
Thelowsky—lineduskstoaleadenhue，Noriftdisturbstheheavyshadeandchill，Saveone，wherethecharredfirmamentletsthroughThescorchingdazzleofHeaven；’gainstwhichthehill，Out—flattenedsombrely，Standsblackaslifeagainsteternity。
Againsteternity？
AriftinglightinmeBurnsthroughtheleadenbroodingsofthemind：
Obless—edSun，thystateUprisenorderogateDaftsmenomorewithdoubt；Iseekandfind。
IfwithexultanttreadThoufoottheEasternsea，OrlikeagoldenbeeStingtheWesttoangryred，Thoudostimage，thoudostfollowThatKing—MakerofCreation，Who，ereHellashailedApollo，Gavethee，angel—god，thystation；
ThouartofHimatypememorial。
LikeHimthouhang’stindreadfulpompofbloodUponthyWesternrood；
AndHisstainedbrowdidveillikethinetonight，YetliftoncemoreItslight，And，risen，againdepartedfromourball，ButwhenItsetoneartharoseinHeaven。
ThushathHeuntodeathHisbeautygiven：
AndsoofallwhichforminheritethThefalldothpasstheriseinworth；
Forbirthhathinitselfthegermofdeath，Butdeathhathinitselfthegermofbirth。
Itisthefallingacornbudsthetree，Thefallingrainthatbearsthegreenery，Thefern—plantsmoulderwhenthefernsarise。
Forthereisnothinglivesbutsomethingdies，Andthereisnothingdiesbutsomethinglives。
Tillskiesbefugitives，TillTime，thehiddenrootofchange，updries，AreBirthandDeathinseparableonearth；
Fortheyaretwainyetone，andDeathisBirth。
AFTER—STRAIN。
NowwithwanraythatothersunofSongSetsinthebleakeningwatersofmysoul：
Onestep，andlo!theCrossstandsgauntandlong’Twixtmeandyetbrightskies，apresageddole。
Evenso，OCross!thineisthevictory。
Thyrootsarefastwithinourfairestfields；
BrightnessmayemanateinHeavenfromthee，Herethydreadsymbolonlyshadowyields。
Ofreap—edjoysthouarttheheavysheafWhichmustbelifted，thoughthereapergroan；
Yea，wemaycrytillHeaven’sgreatearbedeaf，Butwemustbearthee，andmustbearalone。
VainwereaSimon；oftheAntipodesOurnightnotborrowsthesuperfluousday。
Yetwoetohimthatfromhisburdenflees!
Crushedinthefallofwhathecastaway。
Therefore，OtenderLady，QueenMary，ThougentlenessthatdostenmossanddrapeTheCross’srigorousausterity，Wipethouthebloodfromwoundsthatneedsmustgape。
’Lo，thoughsunsriseandset，butcrossesstay，Ileavetheeever，’saithshe，’lightofcheer。’
’Tisso：yonskystillthinksupontheDay，Andshowersaerialblossomsonhisbier。
Yoncloudwithwrinkledfireisedg—edsharp；
Andoncemorewellingthroughtheair，ahme!
Howthesweetviolplainshimtotheharp，Whosepang—edsobbingsthrongtumultuously。
Oh，thisMedusa—pleasurewithherstings!
Thisessenceofallsuffering，whichisjoy!
Iamnotthanklessforthespellitbrings，Thoughtearsmustbetolddownforthecharmedtoy。
No；whilesoul，sky，andmusicbleedtogether，Letmegivethanksevenforthosegriefsinme，TherestlesswindwardstirringsofwhosefeatherProvethemthebroodofimmortality。
Mysoulisquittedofdeath—neighbouringswoon，WhoshallnotslakeherimmitigablescarsUntilshehear’Mysister!’fromthemoon，Andtakethekindredkissesofthestars。
ACAPTAINOFSONG。
（OnaportraitofCoventryPatmorebyJ。S。Sargent，R。A。）
Lookonhim。Thisishewhoseworksyeknow；
Yehaveadored，thanked，lovedhim，——no，nothim!
ButthatofhimwhichproudportentouswoeToitsowngrimPresentmentwasnotpotenttosubdue，NorallthereekofErebustodim。
This，andnothim，yeknew。
Lookonhimnow。Love，worshipifyecan，Theveryman。
Yemaynot。Hehastrodthewaysafar，Thefatalwaysofpartingandfarewell，Whereallthepathsofpain—edgreatnessare；
WhereroundandalwaysroundTheabhorr—edwordsresound，Thewordsaccursedofcomfortablemen，——
’Forever’；andinfinitegloomsintolerableWithspaciousreplicationgiveagain，Andhollowjar，Thewordsabhorredofcomfortablemen。
YouthesternpitiesofthegodsdebarTodrinkwherehehasdrunkThemoonlessmereofsighs，Andpacetheplacesinfamoustotell，WhereGodwipesnotthetearsfromanyeyes，Where—throughthewaysofdreadfulgreatnessareHeknowstheperilousroutThatallthosewaysaboutSinkintodoom，andsinking，stillaresunk。
AndifhissoleandsolemntermthereoutHehasattained，toloveyeshallnotdareOnewhohasjourneyedthere；
YeshallmarkwellThemightycrueltieswhicharmandmarThatcountenanceofcontrol，WithminatorywarningsofasoulThathathtoitsownselfhoodbeenmostfell，Andisnotweaktospare：
Andlo，thathairIsblanch—edwiththetravel—heatsofhell。
IfanybeThatshallwithritesofreverentpietyApproachthisstrongSadsoulofsovereignSong，Norfailandfalterwiththeintimidatethrong；
Ifsuchtherebe，These，theseareonlytheyHavetrodtheself—sameway；
Thenever—twice—revolvingportalsheardBehindthemclanginfernal，andthatwordAbhorr—edsighedofkindmortality，Ashe——
Ah，evenashe!
AGAINSTURANIA。
LoI，Song’smosttruelover，plainmesoreThatworsethanotherwomenshecandeceive，Forshebeinggoddess，IhavegivenhermoreThanmortalladiesfromtheirlovesreceive；
AndfirstofherembraceShewasnotcoy，andgraciouswereherways，ThatIforgotallvirginstoadore；
NordidIgreatlygrieveTobearthroughariddaysTheprettyfoilofherdivinedelays；
AndonebyonetocastLife，love，andhealth，Content，andwealth，Beforeher，thinkingeveronherpraise，UntilatlastNoughthadIleftshewouldbegraciousfor。
NowofhercozeningIcomplainmesore，Seeingheruses，Thatstill，moreconstantlysheispursued，Andstraitlierwooed，Heronly—ador—edfavourmorerefuses，AndleavesmetoimploreRememberedbooninbitternessofblood。
Frommortalwomanthoumay’stknowfullwell，Opoet，thatdostdeemthefairandtallUraniaofherwaysnotmutable，WhenthingsshalltheebefallWhatthouarttoil—edinhersweet，wildspell。
DotheystrowforthyfeetAlittletenderfavouranddeceitOverthesuddenmouthofhiddenhell？——
AsmoreintolerableHerpit，asherfirstkissisheavenlier—sweet。
Arethey，themorethousigh，Stillthemorewatchful—crueltodeny？——
Knowthis，thatinherservicethoushaltlearnHowharderthantheheartofwomanisTheimmortalcrueltyOfthehighgoddesses。
Trueishiswitnesswhodothwitnessthis，Whosegazetooearlyfell——
Northenceshallturn，Norinthosefiresshallceasetoweepandburn——
Uponherruinouseyesandineludible。
ANANTHEMOFEARTH。
Proemion。
ImmeasurableEarth!
ThroughtheloudvastandpopulacyofHeaven，Tempestedwithgoldschoolsofponderousorbs，Thatcleav’stwithdeep—revoltingharmoniesPassageperpetual，andbehindtheedraw’stAfurrowsweet，acometarywakeOftrailingmusic!Whatlargeeffluence，Notsolethecloudysighingofthyseas，Northyblue—coifingair，encasestheeFrompryingofthestars，andthebroadshaftsOfthrustingsunlighttempers？For，droppednearFrommyremov—edtourinthesereneOfutmostcontemplation，Iscentlives。
Thisistheeffluxofthyrocksandfields，Andwind—cuffedforestage，andthesoulsofmen，Andauraofalltreadersoverthee；
Asentientexhalation，whereincloseTheodorouslivesofmany—throatedflowers，Andeachthing’smettleeffused；thatsothouwear’st，Evenlikeabreatheronafrostymorn，Thypropersuspiration。ForIknow，Albeit，withcustom—dulledperceivingness，Nestledagainstthybreast，mysensenottakeThebreathingsofthynostrils，there’snotree，Nograinofdust，nornocold—seemingstone，Butwearsafumeofitscircumfluousself。
Thineownlifeandthelivesofallthatlive，Theissueofthyloins，Isthisthygaberdine，WhereinthouwalkestthroughthylargedemesneAndspherypleasances，——
Amazingtheunstal—edeyesofHeaven，AndusthatstillapreciousseeinghaveBehindthisdimandmortaljelly。
Ah!
IfnotinalltoolateandfrozenadayIcomeinrearwardofthethroatsofsong，Untothedeafsenseoftheag—edyearSingingwithdoomuponme；yetgiveheed!
Onepoetwithsickpinion，thatstillfeelsBreaththroughtheOrientgatewaysclosingfast，Fastclosingt’wardtheundelightednight!
Anthem。
Innescientness，innescientness，Mother，weputthesefleshlylendingsonThouyield’sttothypoorchildren；tookthygiftOflife，whichmust，inalltheafter—days，Becravedagainwithtears，——
Withfreshandstill—petitionarytears。
Beingonceboundthinealmsmenforthatgift，Weareboundtobeggary，norourowncancallThejournaldoleofcustomarylife，Butaftersuitobsequiousfor’ttothee。
Indeedthisflesh，OMother，Abeggar’sgown，aclient’sbadging，Wefind，whichfromthyhandswesimplytook，Noughtdreamingoftheafterpenury，Innescientness。
Inalittlejoy，inalittlejoy，Wewearawhilethysoreinsignia，Norknowthyheelo’theneck。OMother!Mother!
ThenwhatuseknewIofthysolemnrobes，Butasachild，toplaywiththem？IbadetheeLeavethygreathusbandries，thygravedesigns，Thytediousstatewhichirkedmyignorantyears，Thywinter—watches，sucklingofthegrain，SeverepremeditationtaciturnUponthebroodedSummer，thychillcares，Andallthyministriesmajestical，Tosportwithme，thydarling。ThoughtInotThouset’stthyseasonsforthprocessionalTopampermewithpageant，——thouthyselfMyfellow—gamester，appanageofminearms？
ThenwhatwildDionysiaI，youngBacchanal，Dancedinthylap!Ahforthygravity!
Then，OEarth，thourang’stbeneathme，RockedtoEastward，rockedtoWestward，EvenwiththeshiftedPoiseandfootingofmythought!
Ibrakethroughthydoorsofsunset，Ranbeforethehoovesofsunrise，ShookthymatrontressesdowninfanciesWildandwilfulAsapoet’shandcouldtwinethem；
Caughtinmyfantasy’scrystalchaliceTheBow，asitscataractofcoloursPlashedtotheedownward；
Thenwhenthycircuitswungtonightward，Nighttheabhorr—ed，nightwasanewdawning，CelestialdawningOvertheultimatemargesofthesoul；
Duskgrewturbulentwithfirebeforeme，Andlikeawindyarraswavedwithdreams。
SleepItooknotformybedfellow，WhocouldwakenToarevel，aninexhaustibleWassailoforgiacimageries；
ThenwhileIworethysoreinsigniaInalittlejoy，OEarth，inalittlejoy；
Lovingthybeautyinallcreaturesbornofthee，Children，andthesweet—essencedbodyofwoman；
Feelingnotyetuponmyneckthyfoot，ButbreathingwarmoftheeasinfantsbreatheNewfromtheirmother’smorningbosom。SoI，Risenfromthee，restlesswinnoweroftheheaven，MostHermes—like，didkeepMyvitalandresilientpath，andfeltTheplayofwingsaboutmyfledg—edheel——
Sureonthevergesofprecipitousdream，SwiftinitsspringingFromjuttojutofinaccessiblefancies，Inalittlejoy。
Inalittlethought，inalittlethought，Westandandeyetheeinagravedismay，Withsadanddoubtfulquestioning，whenfirstThouspeak’sttousasmen：likesonswhohearNewlytheirmother’shistory，unthoughtBefore，andsay——’Sheisnotaswedreamed：
Ahme!wearebeguiled!’Whatartthou，then，Thatartnotourconceiving？ArtthounotToooldforthyyoungchildren？Orperchance，Keep’stthouayouthperpetual—burnishableBeyondthysonsdecrepit？ItislongSinceTimewasfirstafledgling；
Yetthoumay’stbebutasapendantbullaAgainsthisstriplingbosomswung。Alack!
ForthatweseemindeedTohaveslippedtheworld’sgreatleaping—time，andcomeUponthypinchedanddozingdays：theseweeds，Thesecorporalleavings，thounotcast’stusnew，Freshfromthycraftship，likethelilies’coats，Butfoist’stusoffWithhastytarnishedpiecingsnegligent，SnippetsandwasteFromoldancestralwearings，Thathaveseensorrierusage；remainder—fleshAfterourfather’ssurfeits；naywithchinks，Someofus，thatifspeechmayhavefreeleaveOursoulsgooutatelbows。WearesadWithmorethanoursires’heaviness，andwithMorethantheirweaknessweak；weshallnotbeMightywithalltheirmightiness，norshallnotRejoicewithalltheirjoy。Ay，Mother!Mother!
WhatisthisMan，thydarlingkissedandcuffed，Thoulustinglyengender’st，Tosweat，andmakehisbrag，androt，Crownedwithallhonourandallshamefulness？
FromnightlytowersHedogsthesecretfootstepsoftheheavens，Siftsinhishandsthestars，weighsthemasgold—dust，AndyetishesuccessiveuntonothingButpatrimonyofalittlemould，Andentailoffourplanks。ThouhastmadehismouthAvidofalldominionandallmightiness，Allsorrow，alldelight，alltoplessgrandeurs，Allbeauty，andallstarrymajesties，Anddimtranstellarthings；——eventhatitmay，Filledintheendingwithapuffofdust，Confess——’Itisenough。’TheworldleftemptyWhatthatpoormouthfulcrams。HisheartisbuildedForpride，forpotency，infinity，Allheights，alldeeps，andallimmensities，Arrasedwithpurplelikethehouseofkings，——
Tostallthegrey—rat，andthecarrion—wormStatelilylodge。Motherofmysteries!
Sayerofdarksayingsinathousandtongues，WhobringestforthnosayingyetsodarkAsweourselves，thydarkest!Wetheyoung，Inalittlethought，inalittlethought，Atlastconfrontthee，andourselvesinthee，Andwakedisgarmentedofglory：asoneOnamountstanding，andagainsthimstands，Onthemountadverse，crownedwithwesteringrays，Thegoldensun，andtheytwobrotherlyGazeeachoneach；
HefaringdownTothedullvale，hisGodheadpeelsfromhimTillhecanscarcelyspurnthepebble——
Fornothingnessofnew—foundmortality——
Thatmutiniesagainsthisgall—edfoot。
Littlyhesetshimtothedailyway，Withallaroundthevalleysgrowinggrave，Andknownthingschangedandstrange；butheholdson，Thoughallthelandoflightbewidow—ed，Inalittlethought。
Inalittlestrength，inalittlestrength，Weaffrontthyunveiledfaceintolerable，Whichyetwedosustain。
ThoughItheOrientnevermoreshallfeelBreaklikeaclashofcymbals，andmyheartClangthroughmyshakenbodylikeagong；
NorevermorewithspurtedfeetshalltreadI’thewinepressesofsong；nought’strulylostThatmouldstosproutforthgain：nowIhaveonmeThehighPhoebeanpriesthood，andthatcravesAnunrashutterance；notwithflauntedhemMaytheMuseenterinbehindtheveil，Nor，thoughweholdthesacreddancesgood，ShalltheholyVirginsmaenadize：ruledlipsBefitavotaressMuse。
Thencewithnomutable，nornogelidlove，Ikeep，OEarth，thyworship，Thoughlifeslow，andthesoberingGeniuschangeToalamphisgustytorch。WhatthoughnomoreAthwartitsrosealglowThyfacelookforthtriumphal？Thouput’stonStrangesanctitiesofpathos；likethisknollMadederelictofday，Couchantandshadow—edUnderdimVesper’soverloosenedhair：
This，whereemboss—edwiththehalf—blownseedThesolemnpurplethistlestandsingrassGreyasanexhalation，whenthebankHoldsmistforwaterinthenightsofFall。
Nottotheboy，althoughhiseyesbepureAstheprimesnowdropis，EretherashPhoebusbreakhercloisterOfsanctimonioussnow；
OrWinterfastingsoleonHimalaySincethosedove—nuncioeddaysWhenAsiarosefrombathing；
Nottosucheyes，Uneuphrasiedwithtears，thehierarchicalVisionliesunoccult，rankunderrankThroughallcreatedown—wheeling，fromtheThroneEventothebasesofthepregnantooze。
Thisistheenchantment，thistheexaltation，Theall—compensatingwonder，GivingtocommonthingswildkindredWiththegold—tesseratefloorsofJove；
LinkingsuchheightsandsuchhumilitiesHandinhandinordinaldances，ThatIdothinkmytread，Stirringtheblossomsinthemeadow—grass，Flickerstheunwitheringstars。
ThistotheshunlessfardeloftheworldNervesmyuncurb—edback；thatIendure，ThemonstrousTemple’smovelesscaryatid，Withwideeyescalmuponthewholeofthings，Inalittlestrength。
Inalittlesight，inalittlesight，WelearnfromwhatintheeiscredibleTheincredible，withbloodyclutchandfeetClingingthepainfuljutsofjagg—edfaith。
Science，oldnoserinitspridefulstraw，ThatwithanatomisingscalpeltentsItsthree—inchofthyskin，andbrags——’All’sbare，’
Theeyelessworm，thatboringworksthesoil，MakingitcapableforthecropsofGod；
AgainstitsowndullwillMinisterspoppiestoourtroublousthought，ABalaamcometoprophecy，——parables，Norofitsparableitselfisware，Grosslyunwotting；allthingshasexpoundedRefluxandinflux，countsthesepulchreTheseminaryofbeing，andextinctionTheCeresofexistence：itdiscoversLifeinputridity，vigourindecay；
Dissolutioneven，anddisintegration，Whichinourdullthoughtssymbolisedisorder，FindsinGod’sthoughtsirrefragableorder，AndadmirablethemannerofourcorruptionAsofourhealth。ItgraftsuponthecypressThetreeofLife——DeathdiesonhisowndartPromisingtoourashesperpetuity，AndtoourperishableelementsTheirproperimperishability；extractingMedicamentsfromoutmortalityAgainsttoomortalcogitation；tillEvenofthecaputmortuumwedothusMakeamementovivere。TosuchusesIputtheblindingknowledgeofthefool，Whoinnoorderseethordinance；
Northrustmyarminnatureshoulder—high，Andcry——’There’snoughtbeyond!’HowshouldIso，ThatcannotwiththesearmsofmineengirdleAllwhichIam；thatamaforeignerInmineownregion？WhothechartshalldrawOfthestrangecourtsandvaultylabyrinths，Thespacioustenementsandwidepleasances，Innumerablecorridorsfar—withdrawn，WhereIwanderdarkling，ofmyself？
DarklingIwander，norIdareexploreThelongarcaneofthosedimcatacombs，Wheretheratmemorydoesitsburrowsmake，Close—sealthemasImay，andmystolentreadStartspopulace，agenslucifuga；
Thattoostraitseemsmymindmymindtohold，AndImyselfincontinentofme。
ThengoI，myfoul—ventingignoranceWithscabbysapienceplastered，ayeforsooth!
Clapmywisefoot—ruletothewallso’theworld，Andvow——Agoodlyhouse，butsomethingancient，AndIcanfindnoMaster？Rather，nay，Bybaffledseeing，somethingIdivineWhichbaffles，andaseeingsetbeyond；
Andsowithstrenuousgazessoundingdown，Liketotheday—longporeronastream，Whoselastlookishisdeepest，IbesideThisslowperpetualTimestandpatiently，Inalittlesight。
Inalittledust，inalittledust，Earth，thoureclaim’stus，whodoallourlivesFindoftheebutEgyptianvilleinage。
Thoudostthisbody，thisenhavockedrealm，Subjecttoancientandancestralshadows；
Descendedpassionsswayit；itisdistraughtWithghostlyusurpation，dinnedandfrettedWiththestill—tyrannousdead；ahauntedtenement，Peopledfrombarrowsandoutwornossuaries。
Thougiv’stuslifenothalfsowillinglyAsthouundostthygiving；thouthatteem’stThestealthyterrorofthesinuouspard，Thelionmanedwithcurl—edpuissance，Theserpent，andallfairstrongbeastsofravin，Thyselfmostfairandpotentbeastofravin；
Andthygreateatersthou，thegreatest，eat’st。
Thouhastdevouredmammothandmastodon，Andmanyafloatingbankoffangs，Thescalyscourgesofthyprimalbrine，Andthetower—crestedplesiosaure。
Thoufill’stthymouthwithnations，gorgestslowOnpurpleaeonsofkings；man’shulkingtowersArecarcaseforthee，andtomodernsunDisglutt’sttheirsplinteredbones。
RabbleofPharaohsandArsacidaeKeeptheircoldhousewithinthee；thouhastsuckeddownHowmanyNinevehsandHecatompyloi，AndperishedcitieswhosegreatphantasmataO’erbrowthesilentcitizensofDis：—
Hastnotthyfill？
Tarryawhile，leanEarth，forthoushaltdrink，Eventillthydullthroatsicken，Thedraughtthougrow’stmostfaton；hear’stthounotTheworld’sknivesbickeringintheirsheaths？Opatience!
Muchoffalofafoulworldcomesthyway，Andman’ssuperfluouscloudshallsoonbelaidInalittleblood。
Inalittlepeace，inalittlepeace，ThoudostrebatethyrigidpurposesOfimposedbeing，andrelenting，mend’stToomuch，withnought。ThewesteringPhoebus’horsePawsi’thelucentdustaswhenheshockedTheEastwithrising；OhowmayItraceInthisdeclinethatmorningwhenwedidSport’twixttheclawsofnewly—whelpedexistence，Whichhadnotyetlearnedrending？wedidthenDivinelystand，notknowingyetagainstusSentencehadpassedoflife，norcommutationPetitioningintodeath。What’shethatofTheFreeStateargues？Tellus!bidhimstoop，Evenwherethelowhicjacetanswershim；
Thuslow，OMan!there’sfreedom’sseignory，Tellus’mostreverendsolefreecommonweal，Andmodeldeeply—policied：therenoneStandsonprecedence，norambitiouslyWoostheimpartialworm，whosefavourskissWithliberallargesseall；thereeachisfreeTobee’enwhathemust，whichheredidstriveSomuchtobehecouldnot；therealldoTheirusesjust，withnoflownquestioning。
TobetookbythehandofequalearthTheydoffherlivery，sliptotheworm，Whichlacqueysthem，theirsuitsofmaintenance，Andthatsoiledworkadayapparelcast，Putoncondition：Death’sungentlebuffetAlonemakesceremonialmanumission；
Soaretheheavenlystatutesset，andthoseUraniantablesoftheprimalLaw。