LILY’SMENAGERIE。
[Goethedescribesthismuch-admiredPoem，whichhewroteinhonourofhisloveLily，asbeingdesignedtochangehissurrenderofherintodespair，bydrolly-fretfulimages。]
THERE’Snomenagerie，Ivow，ExcelsmyLily’satthisminute。
Shekeepsthestrangestcreaturesinit，Andcatchesthem，sheknowsnothow。
Oh，howtheyhop，andrun，andrave，Andtheirclipp’dpinionswildlywave，——
Poorprinces，whomustallendureThepangsoflovethatnoughtcancure。
Whatisthefairy’sname？——Is’tLily？——Asknotme！
GivethankstoHeavenifshe’sunknowntothee。
Ohwhatacackling，whatashrieking，Whennearthedoorshetakesherstand，Withherfood-basketinherhand！
Ohwhatacroaking，whatasqueaking！
Aliveallthetreesandthebushesappear，Whiletoherfeetwholetroopsdrawnear。
Theveryfishwithin，thewaterclearSplashwithimpatienceandtheirheadsprotrude。
AndthenshethrowsaroundthefoodWithsuchalook！——theverygodsdelightingTosaynoughtofbeasts。Therebegins，then，abiting，Apicking，apecking，asipping，Andeacho’erthelegsofanotheristripping，Andpushing，andpressing，andflapping，Andchasing，andfuming，andsnapping，Andallforonesmallpieceofbread，Towhich，thoughdry，herfairhandsgiveataste，Asthoughitinambrosiahadbeenplac’d。
Andthenherlook！thetoneWithwhichshecalls：Pipi！Pipi！
WoulddrawJove’seaglefromhisthrone。
Yes，Venus’turtledoves，Iwean，Andthevainpeacocke’en，Wouldcome，Iswear，Soonasthattonehadreach’dthemthroughtheair。
E’enfromaforestdarkhadsheEnticedabear，unlick’d，ill-bred，And，byherwilesalluring，ledTojointhegentlecompany，Untilastameastheywashe：
Uptoacertainpoint，be’tunderstood！
Howfair，and，ah，howgoodSheseem’dtobe！Iwouldhavedrain’dmybloodTowatere’enherflow’retssweet。
Thousayest：I！Who？How？Andwhere？——
Well，tobeplain，goodSirs——Iamthebear。
Inanet-apron，caught，alas！
Chain’dbyasilk-threadatherfeet。
ButhowthiswondercametopassI’lltellsomeday，ifyearecurious。
Justnow，mytemper’smuchtoofurious。
Ah，whenI’minthecornerplac’d，Andhearafarthecreaturessnapping，Andseetheflippingandtheflapping，IturnaroundWithgrowlingsound，Andbackwardrunastepinhaste，AndlookaroundWithgrowlingsound。
Thenrunagainastepinhaste，Andtomyformerpostgoround。
Butsuddenlymyangergrows，Amightyspiritfillsmynose，Myinwardfeelingsallrevolt。
Acreaturesuchasthou！adolt！
Pipi，asquirrelablenutstocrack！
IbristleupmyshaggybackUnusedaslavetobe。
I’mlaughedatbyeachtrimandupstarttreeToscorn。Thebowling-greenIfly，Withneatly-mownandwell-keptgrass：
TheboxmakesfacesasIpass，——
IntothedarkestthickethastenI，Hopingto’scapefromthering，Overthepalingstospring！
VainlyIleapandclimb。
Ifeelaleadenspell。
Thatpinionsmeaswell，AndwhenI’mfullyweariedoutintime，Ilaymedownbesidesomemock-cascade，Androllmyselfhalfdead，andfoam，andcry，And，ah！noOreadshearmysigh，Exceptingthoseofchinamade！
But，ah，withsuddenpowerInallmymembersblissfulfeelingsreign！
’Tisshewhosingethyonderinherbower！
Ihearthatdarling，darlingvoiceagain。
Theairiswarm，andteemswithfragranceclear，Singssheperchanceformealonetohear？
Ihaste，andtrampledowntheshrubsamain。
Thetreesmakeway，thebushesallretreat，Andso——thebeastislyingatherfeet。
Shelooksathim：Themonster’sdrollenough！
He’s，forabear，toomild，Yet，foradog，toowild，Soshaggy，clumsy，rough！
Uponhisbackshegentlystrokesherfoot。
HethinkshimselfinParadise。
Whatfeelingsthroughhissevensensesshoot！
Butshelooksonwithcarelesseyes。
Ilickhersoles，andkisshershoes，Asgentlyasabearwellmay。
SoftlyIrise，andwithacleverruseLeaponherknee——OnapropitiousdayShesuffersit。myearsthenticklesshe，Andhitsmeahardblowinwantonplay。
Igrowlwithnew-bornecstasy。
Thenspeakssheinasweetvainjest，IwotAllonsloutdoux！eh！lamenotte！
EtfaitesserviteurCommeunjoliseigneur。
Thussheproceedswithsportandglee。
Hopefillstheoft-deludedbeast。
Yetifonemomenthewouldlazybe，Herfondnessallatoncehathceas’d。
Shedothaflaskofbalsam-firepossess，Sweeterthanhoneybeescanmake，Onedropofwhichshe’llonherfingertake，Whensoften’dbyhisloveandfaithfulness，Wherewithhermonster’sragingthirsttoslake。
Thenleavesmetomyself，andfliesatlast，AndI，unbound，yetprison’dfastBymagic，followinhertrain，Seekforher，tremble，flyagain。
Thehaplesscreaturethustormentethshe，Regardlessofhispleasureorhiswoe。
Ha！ofthalf-open’ddoessheleavethedoorforme，AndsidewayslookstolearnifIwillflyorno。
AndI——Ohgods！yourhandsaloneCanendthespellthat’so’ermethrown。
Freeme，andgratitudemyheartwillfill。
Andyetfromheavenyesendmedownnoaid——
Notquiteinvaindothlifemylimbspervade：
Ifeelit！Strengthisleftmestill。
1775——
TOCHARLOTTE。
’MIDSTthenoiseofmerrimentandglee，’Midstfullmanyasorrow，manyacare，Charlotte，Iremember，werememberthee，How，atevening’shoursofair，Thouakindlyhanddidstreachus，Whenthou，insomehappyplaceWheremorefairisNaturesface，Manyalightly-hiddentraceOfaspiritloveddidstteachus。
Well’tisthatthyworthIrightlyknew，——
ThatI，inthehourwhenfirstwemet，Whilethefirstimpressionfill’dmeyet，Call’dtheethenagirlbothgoodandtrue。
Rear’dinsilence，calmly，knowingnought，Ontheworldwesuddenlyarethrown。
Hundredthousandbillowsroundussport。
Allthingscharmus——manypleasealone，Manygrieveus，andashouronhourisstealing，Toandfroourrestlessnaturessway。
Firstwefeel，andthenwefindeachfeelingBythechangefulworld-streamborneaway。
WellIknow，weoftwithinusfindManyahopeandmanyasmart。
Charlotte，whocanknowourmind？
Charlotte，whocanknowourheart？
Ah！’twouldfainbeunderstood，’twouldfaino’erflowInsomecreature’sfellow-feelingsblest，And，withtrust，intwofoldmeasureknowAllthegriefandjoyinNature’sbreast。
Thenthineeyeisoftaroundtheecast，Butinvain，forallseemsclosedforever。
Thusthefairestpartoflifeismadlypass’dFreefromstorm，butrestingnever：
Tothysorrowthou’rtto-dayrepell’dBywhatyesterdayobey’dthee。
CanthatworldbytheebeworthyheldWhichsooftbetray’dthee？
Which，’midallthypleasuresandthypains，Livedinselfish，unconcern’drepose？
See，thesoulitssecretcellsregains，Andtheheart——makeshastetoclose。
ThusfoundIthee，andgladlywenttomeetthee。
She’sworthyofalllove！Icried，Andpray’dthatHeavenwithpurestblissmightgreetthee，Whichinthyfrienditrichlyhathsupplied。
1776。*——
LOVE’SDISTRESSES。
WHOwillhearme？WhomshallIlamentto？
Whowouldpitymethatheardmysorrows？
Ah，thelipthaterstsomanyrapturesUsedtotaste，andusedtogiveresponsive，Nowiscloven，anditpainsmesorely。
AnditisnotthusseverelywoundedBymymistresshavingcaughtmefiercely，Andthengentlybittenme，intendingTosecureherfriendmorefirmlytoher：
No，mytenderlipiscrack’dthus，onlyBythewinds，o’errimeandfrostproceeding，Pointed，sharp，unloving，havingmetme。
Nowthenoblegrape’sbrightjuicecommingledWiththebee’ssweetjuice，uponthefireOfmyhearth，shalleasemeofmytorment。
Ah，whatusewillallthisbe，ifwithitLoveaddsnotadropofhisownbalsam？
1789。*——
THEMUSAGETES。
INthedeepestnightsofWinterTotheMuseskindoftcriedI：
Notarayofmornisgleaming，Notasignofdaylightbreaking。
Bring，then，atthefittingmoment，Bringthelamp’ssoftglimm’ringlustre，’SteadofPhoebusandAurora，Toenlivenmystilllabours！
Yettheyleftmeinmyslumbers，Dullandunrefreshing，lying，Andtoeachlate-waken’dmorningFollow’ddaysdevoidofprofit。
Whenatlengthreturn’dthespring-time，TothenightingalesthusspakeI：
Darlingnightingales，oh，beatyeEarly，earlyatmywindow，——
WakemefromtheheavyslumberThatchainsdowntheyouthsostrongly！
Yetthelove-o’erflowingsongstersTheirsweetmelodiesprotractedThroughthenightbeforemywindow，Keptawakemylovingspirit，RousingnewandtenderyearningsInmynewly-waken’dbosom。
Andthenightthusfleetedo’erme，AndAurorafoundmesleeping，——
Ay，thesuncouldscarcearouseme。
NowatlengthiscometheSummer，AndtheearlyflysobusyDrawsmefrommypleasingslumbersAtthefirst-bornmorning-glimmer。
Mercilesslythenreturnsshe，Thoughthehalf-arousedoneoftenScaresherfromhimwithimpatience，Andshelureshershamelesssisters，SothatfrommywearyeyelidsKindlysleeperelongisdriven。
FrommycouchthenboldlyspringI，AndIseekthedarlingMuses，inthebeechen-groveIfindthem，Fullofpieasuretoreceiveme。
AndtothetormentinginsectsOweImanyagoldenhour。
Thusbeye，unwelcomebeings，Highlyvaluedbythepoet，Asthefliesmynumberstellof。
1798——
MORNINGLAMENT。
OHthoucrueldeadly-lovelymaiden，TellmewhatgreatsinhaveIcommitted，Thatthoukeep’stmetotherackthusfasten’d，Thatthouhastthysolemnpromisebroken？
’Twasbutyestere’enthatthouwithfondnessPress’dmyhand，andthesesweetaccentsmurmured：
Yes，I’llcome，I’llcomewhenmornapproacheth，Come，myfriend，fullsurelytothychamber。
OnthelatchIleftmydoors，unfasten’d，Havingfirstwithcaretriedallthehinges，Andrejoic’drightwelltofindtheycreak’dnot。
Whatanightofexpectationpass’dI！
ForIwatch’d，andev’rychimeInumber’d。
IfperchanceIsleptafewshortmoments，Stillmyheartremain’dawakeforever，Andawokemefrommygentleslumbers。
Yes，thenbless’dInight’so’erhangingdarkness，Thatsocalmlycover’dallthingsroundme。
Ienjoy’dtheuniversalsilence，WhileIlisten’deverinthesilence，Ifperchancetheslightestsoundswerestirring。
Hadsheonlythoughts，mythoughtsresembling，Hadsheonlyfeelings，likemyfeelings，Shewouldnotawaitthedawnofmorning。
But，erethis，wouldsurelyhavebeenwithme。
Skipp’dakittenontheflooraboveme，Scratch’damouseapanelinthecorner，Wasthereinthehousetheslightestmotion，EverhopedIthatIheardthyfootstep，EverthoughtIthatIheardtheecoming。
AndsolayIlong，andeverlonger，Andalreadywasthedaylightdawning，Andbothhereandthereweresignsofmovement。
Isityondoor？Wereitmydooronly！
InmybedIlean’duponmyelbow，Lookingtow’rdthedoor，nowhalf-apparent，Ifperchanceitmightnotbeinmotion。
Boththewingsuponthelatchcontinued，Onthequiethingescalmlyhanging。
Andthedaygrewbrightandbrighterever。
AndIheardmyneighbour’sdoorunbolted，Ashewenttoearnhisdailywages，AnderelongIheardthewaggonsrumbling，Andthecitygateswerealsoopen’d，Whilethemarket-place，inev’rycorner，Teem’dwithlifeandbustleandconfusion。
InthehousewasgoingnowandcomingUpanddownthestairs，anddoorswerecreakingBackwardsnow，nowforwards，——footstepsclatter’dYet，asthoughitwereathingall-living，Frommycherish’dhopeIcouldnottearme。
Whenatlengththesun，inhatedsplendour。
Felluponmywalls，uponmywindows，UpIsprang，andhasten’dtothegarden，Theretoblendmybreath，sohotandyearning，Withthecoolrefreshingmorningbreezes，And，itmightbe，eventheretomeetthee：
ButIcannotfindtheeinthearbour，Ortheavenueofloftylindens。
1789。*——
THEVISIT。
FAINhadIto-daysurprisedmymistress，ButsoonfoundIthatherdoorwasfasten’d。
YetIhadthekeysafeinmypocket，AndthedarlingdoorIopen’dsoftly！
IntheparlourfoundInotthemaiden，Foundthemaidennotwithinhercloset，Thenherchamber-doorIgentlyopen’d，WhenIfoundherwrapp’dinpleasingslumbers，Fullydress’d，andlyingonthesofa。
Whileatworkhadslumberstoleno’erher。
ForherknittingandherneedlefoundI
Restinginherfoldedbandssotender。
AndIplacedmyselfbesidehersoftly，Andheldcounsel，whetherIshouldwakeher。
ThenIlookeduponthebeauteousquietThatonhersweeteyelidswasreposingOnherlipswassilenttruthdepicted，Onhercheekshadlovelinessitsdwelling，AndthepurenessofaheartunsulliedInherbosomevermorewasheaving。
Allherlimbsweregracefullyreclining，Setatrestbysweetandgodlikebalsam。
GladlysatI，andthecontemplationHeldthestrongdesireIfelttowakeherFirmerandfirmerdown，withmysticfetters。
Oh，thoulove，methought，Iseethatslumber，Slumberthatbetrayetheachfalsefeature，Cannotinjurethee，cannoughtdiscoverThatcouldservetoharmthyfriend’ssoftfeelings。
Nowthybeauteouseyesarefirmlyclosed，That，whenopen，formmineonlyrapture。
Andthysweetlipsaredevoidofmotion，Motionlessforspeakingorforkissing。
Loosen’darethesoftandmagicfettersOfthinearms，sowonttotwinearoundme，Andthehand，theravishingcompanionOfthysweetcaresses，liesunmoving。
Weremythoughtsoftheebutbasedonerror，WeretheloveIbeartheeself-deception，Imustnowhavefounditout，sinceAmorIs，withouthisbandage，placedbesideme。
LongIsatthus，fullofheartfeltpleasureAtmylove，andathermatchlessmerit。
Shehadsodelightedmewhileslumbering，ThatIcouldnotventuretoawakeher。
ThenIonthelittletablenearherSoftlyplacedtwooranges，tworoses。
Gently，gentlystoleIfromherchamber。
Whenhereyesthedarlingoneshallopen，Shewillstraightwayspythesecolourdpresents，Andthefriendlygiftwillviewwithwonder，Forthedoorwillstillremainunopen’d。
IfperchanceIseeto-nighttheangel，Howwillsherejoice，——rewardmedoublyForthissacrificeoffondaffection！
1765——
THEMAGICNET。
DoIseeacontestyonder？
SeeImiraclesorpastimes？
Beauteousurchins，fiveinnumber，’Gainstfivesistersfaircontending，——
Measuredisthetimethey’rebeating——
Atabrightenchantress’bidding。
Glitt’ringspearsbysomearewielded，Threadsareothersnimblytwining，Sothatintheirsnares，theweaponsOnewouldthink，mustneedsbecaptured，Soon，intruth，thespearsareprison’d。
Yetthey，inthegentlewar-dance，OnebyoneescapetheirfettersIntherowofloopssotender，ThatmakehastetoseizeafreeoneSoonastheyreleaseacaptive。
Sowithcontests，strivings，triumphs，Flyingnow，andnowreturning，Isanartfulnetsoonwoven，Initswhitenesslikethesnow-flakes，That，fromlightamidthedarkness，Drawtheirstreakylinessovaried，Ase’encoloursscarcecandrawthem。
WhoshallnowreceivethatgarmentFarbeyondallotherswish’d-for？
Whomourmuch-lovedmistressfavourAsherownacknowledgedservant？
IamblestbykindlyFortune’sTokenstrue，insilencepray’dfor！
AndIfeelmyselfheldcaptive，Toherservicenowdevoted。
Yet，e’enwhileI，thusenraptured，Thusadorn’d，amproudlywand’ring，See！yonwantonsareentwining，Voidofstrife，withsecretardour，Othernets，eachfineandfiner，Threadsoftwilightinterweaving，Moonbeamssweet，night-violets’balsam。
Erethenetisnoticedbyus，Isahappieroneimprison’d，Whomwe，oneandall，togetherGreetwithenvyandwithblessings。
1803——
THEGOBLET。
ONCEIheldawell-carvedbrimminggoblet，——
Inmytwohandstightlyclasp’dIheldit，Eagerlythesweetwinesipp’dIfromit，Seekingtheretodrownallcareandsorrow。
Amorenter’din，andfoundmesitting，Andhegentlysmiledinmodestfashion，Smiledasthoughthefoolishonehepitied。
Friend，Iknowafarmorebeauteousvessel，Onewhereintosinkthyspiritwholly。
Say，whatwiltthougiveme，ifIgrantit，Andwithothernectarfillitforthee？
Oh，howkindlyhathhekepthispromise！
Fortome，wholonghadyearn’d，hegrantedThee，myLida，fill’dwithsoftaffection。
WhenIclaspminearmsaroundtheefondly，WhenIdrinkinlove’slong-hoardedbalsamFromthydarlinglipssotrue，sofaithful，Fill’dwithblissthusspeakItomyspiritNo！avesselsuchasthis，saveAmorNevergodhathfashion’dorbeenlordof！
Suchaformwasne’erproducedbyVulcanWithhiscunning，reason-giftedhammers！
Ontheleaf-crown’dmountainsmayLyaeusBidhisFauns，theoldestandthewisest，Passthechoicestclustersthroughthewinepress，Andhimselfwatcho’erthefermentation：
Suchadraughtnotoilcane’erprocurehim！
1781——
TOTHEGRASSHOPPER。
AFTERANACREON。
[ThestrongresemblanceofthisfinepoemtoCowley’sOdebearingthesamename，andbeginningHappyinsect！whatcanbe，willbeatonceseen。]
HAPPYartthou，darlinginsect，Who，uponthetrees’tallbranches，Byamodestdraughtinspired，Singing，likeamonarchlivest！
ThoupossessestasthyportionAllthatontheplainsthouseest，Allthatbythehoursisbroughtthee’Mongstthehusbandmenthoulivest，Asafriend，uninjuredbythem，Thouwhommortalslovetohonour，HeraldsweetofsweetSpring’sadvent！
Yes，thou’rtlovedbyalltheMuses，Phoebus’self，too，needsmustlovethee。
Theytheirsilvervoicesgavethee，Agecanneverstealuponthee。
Wiseandgentlefriendofpoets，Bornacreaturefleshless，bloodless，ThoughEarth’sdaughter，freefromsuff’ring，Tothegodse’enalmostequal。
1781——
FROM’THESORROWSOFYOUNGWERTHER。’
[Prefixedtothesecondedition。]
EV’RYyouthforlove’ssweetportionsighs，Ev’rymaidensighstowinman’slove。
Why，alas！shouldbitterpainariseFromthenoblestpassionthatweprove？
Thou，kindsoul，bewailest，lov’sthimwell，Fromdisgracehismemory’ssavedbythee。
Lo，hisspiritsignsfromoutitscell：
BEAMAN，NORSEEKTOFOLLOWME。
1775——
TRILOGYOFPASSION。
I。TOWERTHER。
[Thispoem，writtenattheageofseventy-five，wasappendedtoaneditionof’Werther，’publishedatthattime。]
ONCEmore，then，much-weptshadow，thoudostdareBoldlytofacetheday’sclearlight，Tomeetmeonfreshbloomingmeadowsfair，Anddostnottrembleatmysight。
Thosehappytimesappearreturn’doncemore。
Whenononefieldwequaff’drefreshingdew，And，whentheday’sunwelcometoilswereo’er，Thefarewellsunbeamsbless’dourravish’dview。
Fatebadetheego，——tolingerherewasmine，——
Goingthefirst，thesmallerlosswasthine。
Thelifeofmanappearsagloriousfate：
Thedayhowlovely，andthenighthowgreat！
Andwe’midParadise-likerapturesplac’d，Thesun’sbrightgloryscarcehavelearn’dtotaste。
Whenstrangecontendingfeelingsdimlycover，Nowus，andnowtheformsthatroundushover。
One’sfeelingsbynootheraresupplied，’Tisdarkwithout，ifallisbrightinside。
Anoutwardbrightnessveilsmysadden’dmood，WhenFortunesmiles，——howseldomunderstood！
Nowthinkwethatweknowher，andwithmightAwoman’sbeauteousforminstilsdelight。
Theyouth，asgladasinhisinfancy，Thespring-timetreads，asthoughthespringwereheRavish’d，amazed，heasks，howthisisdone？
Helooksaround，theworldappearshisown。
Withcarelessspeedhewandersonthroughspace，Norwalls，norpalacescancheckhisrace。
Assomegayflightofbirdsroundtree-topsplays，So’tiswithhimwhoroundhismistressstrays。
HeseeksfromAEther，whichhe’dleavebehindhim，Thefaithfullookthatfondlyservestobindhim。
Yetfirsttooearlywarn’d，andthentoolate，Hefeelshisflightrestrain’d，iscaptur’dstraightTomeetagainissweet，topartissad，Againtomeetagainisstillmoreglad，Andyearsinoneshortmomentareenshrin’d。
But，oh，theharshfarewellishidbehind！
Thousmilest，friend，withfittingthoughtsinspired。
Byadreadpartingwasthyfameacquired，Thymournfuldestinywesorrow’do’er，Forwealandwoethouleft’stusevermore，Andthenagainthepassions’waveringforceDrewusalonginlabyrinthinecourse。
Andwe，consumedbyconstantmisery，Atlengthmustpart——andpartingistodie！
Howmovingisit，whentheminstrelsings，To’scapethedeaththatseparationbrings！
Ohgrant，somegod，toonewhosuffersso，Totell，half-guilty，hissadtaleofwoe1824
II。ELEGY。
Whenmanhadceasedtoutterhislament，Agodthenletmetellmytaleofsorrow。
WHAThopeofoncemoremeetingistherenowInthestill-closedblossomsofthisday？
Bothheavenandhellthrownopenseestthou。
Whatwav’ringthoughtswithinthebosomplayNolongerdoubt！Descendingfromthesky，Sheliftstheeinherarmstorealmsonhigh。
AndthusthouintoParadisewertbrought，Asworthyofapureandendlesslife。
Nothingwasleft，nowish，nohope，nothought，Herewastheboundaryofthineinmoststrife：
Andseeingonesofair，soglorified，Thefountofyearningtearswasstraightwaydried。
Nomotionstirr’dtheday’srevolvingwheel，Intheirownfronttheminutesseem’dtogo。
Theeveningkiss，atrueandbindingseal，Ne’erchangingtillthemorrow’ssunlightglow。
Thehoursresembledsistersastheywent。
Yeteachonefromanotherdifferent。
Thelasthour’skiss，sosadlysweet，effac’dAbeauteousnetworkofentwininglove。
Nowonthethresholdpausethefeet，nowhaste。
Asthoughaflamingcherubbadethemmove。
Theunwillingeyethedarkroadwanderso’er，Backwarditlooks，butcloseditseesthedoor。
Andnowwithinitselfisclosedthisbreast，Asthoughitne’erwereopen，andasthough，Vyingwithev’rystar，nomomentsblestHad，initspresence，feltakindlingglow。
Sadness，reproach，repentance，weightofcare，Hangheavyonitinthesultryair。
Isnottheworldstillleft？Therockysteeps，Aretheywithholyshadesnolongercrown’d？
Growsnottheharvestripe？NolongercreepsTheespalierbythestream，——thecopsearound？
Dothnotthewondrousarchofheavenstillrise，Nowrichinshape，nowshapelesstotheeyes？
As，seraph-like，fromoutthedarkclouds’chorus，Withsoftnesswoven，graceful，light，andfair，ResemblingHer，intheblueaethero’erus，Aslenderfigurehoversintheair，——
Thusdidstthouseeherjoyouslyadvance，Thefairestofthefairestinthedance。
YetbutamomentdostthouboldlydareToclaspanairyforminsteadofhers。
Backtothineheart！thou’ltfinditbetterthere，ForthereinchangefulguiseherimagestirsWhaterstwasone，tomanyturnethfast，Inthousandforms，eachdearerthanthelast。
Asatthedoor，onmeetinglingerdshe，Andstepbystepmyfaithfulardourbless’d，Forthelastkissherselfentreatedme，Andonmylipsthelastlastkissimpress’d，——
Thusclearlytraced，thelov’done’sformweview，Withflamesengravenonaheartsotrue，——
Aheartthat，firmassomeembattledtower，Itselfforher，herinitselfreveres，Forherrejoicesinitslastingpower，Consciousalone，whensheherselfappears。
Feelsitselffreerinsosweetathrall，Andonlybeatstogiveherthanksinall。
Thepowerofloving，andallyearningsighsForloveresponsivewereeffacedanddrown’d。
WhilelonginghopeforjoyousenterpriseWasform’d，andrapidactionstraightwayfound。
Iflovecane’eralovingoneinspire，Mostlovinglyitgavemenowitsfire。
And’twasthroughher！——aninwardsorrowlayOnsoulandbody，heavilyoppress’d。
Tomournfulphantomswasmysightaprey，Inthedrearvoidofasadtorturedbreast。
Nowonthewell-knownthresholdHopehathsmil’d，Herselfappearethinthesunlightmild。
UntothepeaceofGod，which，asweread，Blessethusmorethanreasone’erbathdone，Love’shappypeacewouldIcompareindeed，Wheninthepresenceofthedearestone。
Therereststheheart，andtherethatsweetestthought，Thethoughtofbeinghers，ischeck’dbynought。
Inthepurebosomdothayearningfloat，Untoaholier，purer，unknownBeingItsgratefulaspirationtodevote，TheEver-Namelessthenunriddledseeing。
Wecallit：piety！——suchblestdelightIfeelasharein，whenbeforehersight。
Beforehersight，as’neaththesun’shotray，Beforeherbreath，as’neaththespring’ssoftwind，InitsdeepwintrycavernmeltsawaySelf-love，solonginicychainsconfin’d。
Noselfishnessandnoself-willarenigh，Foratheradventtheywereforcedtofly。
Itseemsasthoughshesaid：AshourspassbyTheyspreadbeforeuslifewithkindlyplan。
Smallknowledgedidtheyesterdaysupply，Toknowthemorrowisconceal’dfromman。
Andifthethoughtofeveningmademestart，Thesunatsettinggladden’dstraightmyheart。
Act，then，asI，andlook，withjoyousmind，Themomentintheface。norlingerthou！
Meetitwithspeed，sofraughtwithlife，sokindInaction，andinlovesoradiantnow。
Letallthingsbewherethouart，childlikeever，Thusthoultbeall，thus，thou’ltbevanquish’dnever。
Thouspeakestwell，methought，forasthyguideThemoment’sfavourdidagodassign，Andeachonefeelshimselfwhenbythyside，Fate’sfav’riteinamomentsodivine。
Itrembleatthylookthatbidsmego，WhyshouldIcaresuchwisdomvasttoknow？
NowamIfar！AndwhatwouldbestbefitThepresentminute？Icouldscarcelytell。
Fullmanyarichpossessionoffersit，Thesebutoffend，andIwouldfainrepel。
Yearningsunquenchablestilldrivemeon，Allcounsel，saveunboundedtears，isgone。
Flowon，flowoninnever-ceasingcourse，Yetmayyeneverquenchmyinwardfire！
Withinmybosomheavesamightyforce，Wheredeathandlifecontendincombatdire。
Medicinesmayservethebody’spangstostill。
Noughtbutthespiritfailsinstrengthofwill，——
Failsinconception。whereforefailsitso？
Athousandtimesherimageitportrays。
Enchantingnow，andnowcompell’dtogo，Nowindistinct，nowclothedinpurestrays！
Howcouldthesmallestcomfortherebeflowing？
Theebbandflood，thecomingandthegoing！
******
Leavemeherenow，mylife’scompanionstrue！
Leavemealoneonrock，inmoorandheath。
Butcourage！openliestheworldtoyou，Thegloriousheavensabove，theearthbeneath。
Observe，investigate，withsearchingeyes，Andnaturewilldisclosehermysteries。
Tomeisall，Itomyselfamlost，Whotheimmortals’fav’riteerstwasthought。
They，tempting，sentPandorastomycost，Sorichinwealth，withdangerfarmorefraught。
Theyurgedmetothoselips，withrapturecrown’d，Desertedme，andhurl’dmetotheground。
1823。
III。ATONEMENT。
[Composed，when74yearsold，foraPolishlady，whoexcelledinplayingonthepianoforte。]
PASSIONbringsreason——whocanpacifyAnanguish’dheartwhoselosshathbeensogreat？
Wherearethehoursthatfledsoswiftlyby？
Invainthefairestthoudidstgainfromfate。
Sadisthesoul，confusedtheenterprise。
Thegloriousworld，howonthesenseitdies！
Inmilliontonesentwinedforevermore，Musicwithangel-pinionshoversthere，Topierceman’sbeingtoitsinmostcore，Eternalbeautyhasitsfruittobear。
Theeyegrowsmoist，inyearningsblestreveresThegodlikeworthofmusicasoftears。
Andsothelighten’dheartsoonlearnstoseeThatitstilllives，andbeats，andoughttobeat，Off’ringitselfwithjoyandwillingly，Ingratefulpaymentforagiftsosweet。
Andthenwasfelt，——ohmayitconstantprove！——
Thetwofoldblissofmusicandoflove。
1823——
THEremembranceoftheGoodKeepusevergladinmood。
TheremembranceoftheFairMakesamortalraptureshare。
Theremembranceofone’sLoveBlestIs，ifitconstantprove。
TheremembranceoftheOneIsthegreatestjoythat’sknown。
1828——
[Writtenattheageof77。]
WHENIwasstillayouthfulwight，Sofullofenjoymentandmerry，Thepaintersusedtoassert，inspite，Thatmyfeaturesweresmall——yes，very。
YetthenfullmanyabeauteouschildWithtrueaffectionuponmesmil’d。
NowasagreybeardIsithereinstate，Bystreetandbylaneheldinawe，sirs。
Andmaybeseen，likeoldFredericktheGreat，Onpipebowls，oncups，andonsaucers。
Yetthebeauteousmaidens，theykeepafar。
Ohvisionofyouth！Ohgoldenstar！
1826——
FOREVER。
THEhappinessthatman，whilstprison’dhere，Iswontwithheavenlyrapturetocompare，——
TheharmonyofTruth，fromwaveringclear，——
OfFriendshipthatisfreefromdoubtingcare，——
ThelightwhichinstraythoughtsalonecancheerThewise，——thebardaloneinvisionsfair，——
InmybesthoursIfoundinherallthis，Andmademineown，tomineexceedingbliss。
1820。*——
FROMANALBUMOF1604。
HOPEprovideswingstothought，andlovetohope。
RiseuptoCynthia，love，whennightisclearest，Andsay，thatasonhighherfigurechangeth，So，uponearth，myjoydecaysandgrows。
Andwhisperinherearwithmodestsoftness，Howdoubtofthungitshead，andtruthoftwept。
Andohyethoughts，distrustfullyinclined，Ifyearethereforebythelovedonechided，Answer：’tistrueyechange，butalternot，Assheremainsthesame，yetchangethever。
Doubtmayinvadetheheart，butpoisonsnot，Forloveissweeter，bysuspicionflavour’d。
Ifitwithangerovercaststheeye，Andheaven’sbrightpurityperverselyblackens，Thenzephyr-sighsstraightscarethecloudsaway，And，changedtotears，dissolvethemintorain。
Thought，hope，andloveremainthereasbefore，TillCynthiagleamsuponmeasofold。
1820。*——
LINESONSEEINGSCHILLER’SSKULL。
[ThiscuriousimitationoftheternarymetreofDantewaswrittenattheageof77。]
WITHINagloomycharnel-houseonedayIview’dthecountlessskulls，sostrangelymated，AndofoldtimesIthought，thatnowweregrey。
Closepack’dtheystand，thatoncesofiercelyhated，Andhardybones，thattothedeathcontended，Arelyingcross’d，——tolieforever，fated。
Whatheldthosecrookedshoulder-bladessuspended？
Noonenowasks。andlimbswithvigourfired，Thehand，thefoot——theiruseinlifeisended。
Vainlyyesoughtthetombforrestwhentired。
Peaceinthegravemaynotbeyours。ye’redrivenBackintodaylightbyaforceinspired。
Butnonecanlovethewither’dhusk，thoughevenAgloriousnoblekernelitcontained。
Tome，anadept，wasthewritinggivenWhichnottoallitsholysenseexplained，When’midthecrowd，theiricyshadowsflinging，Isawaform，thatgloriousstillremained。
Andeventhere，wheremouldanddampwereclinging，Gavemeablest，arapture-fraughtemotion，Asthoughfromdeathalivingfountwerespringing。
WhatmysticjoyIfelt！Whatraptdevotion！
Thatform，howpregnantwithagodliketrace！
Alook，howdiditwhirlmetow’rdthatoceanWhoserollingbillowsmightiershapesembrace！
Mysteriousvessel！Oraclehowdear！
Eventograsptheeismyhandtoobase，ExcepttostealtheefromthyprisonhereWithpiouspurpose，anddevoutlygoBacktotheair，freethoughts，andsunlightclear。
Whatgreatergaininlifecanmane’erknowThanwhenGod-NaturewilltohimexplainHowintoSpiritsteadfastnessmayflow，Howsteadfast，too，theSpirit-Bornremain。
1826——
ROYALPRAYER。
HA，Iamthelordofearth！Thenoble，Who’reinmyservice，loveme。
Ha，Iamthelordofearth！Thenoble，O’erwhommyswayextendeth，loveI。
Oh，grantme，GodinHeaven，thatImayne’erDispensewithloftinessandlove！
1815。*——
HUMANFEELINGS。
AH，yegods！yegreatimmortalsInthespaciousheavensaboveus！
WouldyeonthisearthbutgiveusSteadfastmindsanddauntlesscourageWe，ohkindlyones，wouldleaveyouAllyourspaciousheavensaboveus！
1815。*——
ONTHEDIVAN。
HEwhoknowshimselfandothersHerewillalsosee，ThattheEastandWest，likebrothers，Partedne’ershallbe。
Thoughtfullytofloatforever’Tweentwoworlds，beman’sendeavour！
SobetweentheEastandWestTorevolve，bemybehest！
1833。*——
EXPLANATIONOFANANCIENTWOODCUT，REPRESENTING
HANSSACHS’POETICALMISSION。
[IfeelconsiderablehesitationinventuringtoofferthisversionofapoemwhichCarlyledescribestobe’abeautifulpieceaveryHansSacksbeatified，bothincharacterandstyle，whichwewishtherewasanypossibilityoftranslating。’ThereaderwillbeawarethatHansSachswasthecelebratedMinstrel-
CobblerofNuremberg，whoWrote208plays，1700comictales，andbetween4000and5000lyricpoems。Heflourishedthroughoutalmostthewholeofthe16thcentury。]
EARLYwithinhisworkshophere，OnSundaysstandsourmasterdear。
Hisdirtyapronheputsaway，Andwearsacleanlydoubletto-day。
Letswax’dthread，hammer，andpincersrest，Andlayshisawlwithinhischest。
TheseventhdayhetakesreposeFrommanypullsandmanyblows。
Soonasthespring-sunmeetshisview，Reposebegetshimlabouranew。
HefeelsthatheholdswithinhisbrainAlittleworld，thatbroodsthereamain，Andthatbeginstoactandtolive，Whichhetootherswouldgladlygive。
Hehadaskilfuleyeandtrue，Andwasfullkindandlovingtoo。
Forcontemplation，clearandpure，——
Formakingallhisownagain，sure。
Hehadatonguethatcharm’dwhen’twasheard，Andgracefulandlightflow’dev’ryword。
WhichmadetheMusesinhimrejoice，TheMaster-singeroftheirchoice。
Andnowamaidenenter’dthere，Withswellingbreast，andbodyfair。
Withfootingfirmshetookherplace，Andmovedwithstately，noblegrace。
Shedidnotwalkinwantonmood，Norlookaroundwithglanceslewd。
Sheheldameasureinherhand，Hergirdlewasagoldenband，Awreathofcornwasonherhead，Hereyetheday’sbrightlustreshed。
HernameishonestIndustry，Else，Justice，Magnanimity。
Sheenter’dwithakindlygreeting。
Hefeltnowonderatthemeeting，For，kindandfairasshemightbe，Helonghadknownher，fanciedhe。
Ihaveselectedthee，shesaid，Fromallwhoearth’swildmazestread，Thatthoushouldsthaveclear-sightedsense，Andnoughtthat’swrongshouldste’ercommence。
Whenothersruninstrangeconfusion，ThygazeshallseethrougheachillusionWhenothersdolefullycomplain，Thycausewithjestingthoushaltgain，Honourandrightshaltvalueduly，Ineverythingactsimply，truly，——
Virtueandgodlinessproclaim，Andcallallevilbyitsname，Noughtsoftendown，attemptnoquibble，Noughtpolishup，noughtvainlyscribble。
Theworldshallstandbeforethee，then，AsseenbyAlbertDurer’sken，Inmanlinessandchangelesslife，Ininwardstrength，withfirmnessrife。
FairNature’sGeniusbythehandShallleadtheeonthrougheveryland，Teachtheeeachdifferentlifetoscan，Showtheethewondrouswaysofman，Hisshifts，confusions，thrustings，anddrubbings，Pushings，tearings，pressings，andrubbings。
Thevaryingmadnessofthecrew，Theanthill’sravingsbringtoview。
Butthoushaltseeallthisexpress’d，Asthough’twereinamagicchest。
Writethesethingsdownforfolksonearth，Inhopestheymaytowitgivebirth——
Thensheawindowopen’dwide，Andshow’damotleycrowdoutside，Allkindsofbeings’neaththesky，Asinhiswritingsonemayspy。
Ourmasterdearwas，afterthis，OnNaturethinking，fullofbliss，Whentow’rdhim，fromtheothersideHesawanagedwomanglide。
Thenameshebears，Historia，Mythologia，Fabula。
WithfootsteptotteringandunstableShedragg’dalargeandwoodencarved-table，Where，withwidesleevesandhumanmien，TheLordwascatechizingseen。
Adam，Eve，Eden，theSerpent’sseduction，GomorrahandSodom’sawfuldestruction，Thetwelveillustriouswomen，too，Thatmirrorofhonourbroughttoview。
Allkindsofbloodthirstiness，murder，andsin，Thetwelvewickedtyrantsalsowerein，Andallkindsofgoodlydoctrineandlaw。
SaintPeterwithhisscourgeyousaw，Withtheworld’swaysdissatisfied，AndbyourLordwithpowersupplied。
Hertrainanddress，behindandbefore，Ande’entheseams，werepaintedo’erWithtalesofworldlyvirtueandcrime——
Ourmasterview’dallthisforatime。
Thesightrightgladlyhesurvey’d，Sousefulforhiminhistrade，WhencehewasabletoprocureExamplegoodandpreceptsure，Recountingallwithtruthfulcare，Asthoughhehadbeenpresentthere。
Hisspiritseem’dfromearthtofly，Hene’erhadturnedawayhiseye，DidhenotjustbehindhimhearArattleofbellsapproachingnear。
Andnowafooldothcatchhiseye，Withgoatandape’sleapdrawingnighAmerryinterludepreparingWithfooleriesandjestsunsparing。
Behindhim，inalinedrawnout，Hedragg’dallfools，theleanandstout，Thegreatandlittle，theemptyandfull，Alltoowitty，andalltoodull，Alashheflourish’doverhead，Asthoughadanceofapesheled，Abusingthemwithbitterness，Asthoughhiswrathwouldne’ergrowless。
Whileonthissightourmastergazed，Hisheadwasgrowingwell-nighcrazed：
Whatwordsforallcouldhee’erfind，Couldsuchamedleybecombined？
CouldhecontinuewithdelightForevermoretosingandwrite？
Whenlo，fromoutacloud’sdarkbedInattheupperwindowspedTheMuse，inallhermajesty，Asfairasourlovedmaidswesee。
WithclearnessshearoundhimthrewHertruth，thateverstrongergrew。
I，toordaintheecome，shespake：
Soprosper，andmyblessingtake！
Theholyfirethatslumb’ringliesWithinthee，inbrightflamesshallrise。
Yetthatthineever-restlesslifeMaystillwithkindlystrengthberife，I，forthineinwardspirit’scalm。
Havegrantednourishmentandbalm，Thatrapturemaythysoulimbue，Likesomefairblossombathedindew——
BehindhishousethensecretlyOutsidethedoorwaypointedshe，Where，inashadygarden-nook，AbeauteousmaidwithdowncastlookWassittingwhereastreamwasflowing，Withelderbushesnearitgrowing，Shesatbeneathanappletree，Andnoughtaroundherseem’dtosee。
Herlapwasfullofrosesfair，Whichinawreathshetwinedwithcare。
And，withthem，leavesandblossomsblended：
Forwhomwasthatsweetwreathintended？
Thussatshe，modestandretired，Herbosomthrobb’d，withhopeinspired。
Suchdeepforebodingsfill’dhermind，Noroomforwishingcouldshefind，Andwiththethoughtsthato’eritflew，Perchanceasighwasmingledtoo。
Butwhyshouldsorrowcloudthybrow？
That，dearestlove，whichfillstheenowIsfraughtwithjoyandecstasy。
Preparedinonealoneforthee，ThathewithinthineeyemayfindSolacewhenfortuneprovesunkind，Andbenewbornthroughmanyakiss，Thathereceiveswithinwardbliss。
When’erheclaspstheetohisbreast。
MayhefromallhistoilsfindrestWhenheinthydeararmsshallsink，Mayhenewlifeandvigourdrink：
Freshjoysofyouthshaltthouobtain，Inmerryjestrejoiceagain。
Withrailleryandroguishspite，Thounowshaltteasehim，nowdelight。
ThusLovewillnevermoregrowold，Thuswilltheminstrelne’erbecold！
Whilehethuslives，insecretbless’d，AbovehiminthecloudsdothrestAnoak-wreath，verdantandsublime，Placedonhisbrowinafter-time。
Whiletheyarebanish’dtotheslough，Whotheirgreatmasterdisavow。
1776——
SONNETS——
LovinglyI’llsingoflove。
Evercomesshefromabove——
THEFRIENDLYMEETING。
INspreadingmantletomychinconceald，Itrodtherockypath，sosteepandgrey，ThentothewintryplainIbentmywayUneasily，toflightmybosomsteel’d。
Butsuddenwasthenewborndayreveal’d：
Amaidencame，inheavenlybrightarray，Likethefaircreaturesofthepoet’slayInrealmsofsong。Myyearningheartwasheal’d。
Yetturn’dIthence，tillshehadonwardpass’d，WhilecloserstillthefoldstodrawItried，Asthoughwithheatself-kindledtogrowwarm。
Butfollow’dher。Shestood。Thediewascast！
NomorewithinmymantlecouldIhide。
Ithrewitoff，——shelaywithinminearm。
1807-8——
INAWORD。
THUStobechain’dforever，canIbear？
Averytormentthat，intruth，wouldbe。
Thisverydaymynewresolveshallsee——
I’llnotgonearthelately-worshipp’dFair。
Yetwhatexcuse，myheart，canIprepareInsuchacase，fornotconsultingthee？
Butcourage！whileoursorrowsutterweIntoneswherelove，grief，gladnesshaveashare。
Butsee！theminstrel’sbiddingtoobey，Itsmelodypoursforththesoundinglyre，Yearningasacrificeoflovetobring。
Scarcewouldstthouthinkit——readyisthelay。
Well，butwhatthen？MethoughtinthefirstfireWetoherpresenceflew，thatlaytosing。
1807？——
THEMAIDENSPEAKS。
Howgravethouloookest，lovedone！whereforeso？
Thymarbleimageseemsatypeofthee。
Likeit，nosignoflifethougiv’sttome。
Comparedwiththee，thestoneappearstoglow。
Behindhisshieldinambushlurksthefoe，Thefriend’sbrowall-unruffledweshouldsee。
Iseekthee，butthouseek’stawaytoflee。
Fix’dasthissculpturedfigure，learntogrow！
Tellme，towhichshouldIthepreferencepay？
MustIfrombothwithcoldnessmeetalone？
Theoneislifeless，thouwithlifeartblest。
Inshort，nolongertothrowwordsaway，I’llfondykissandkissandkissthisstone，Tillthoudosttearmehencewithenviousbreast。
1807——
GROWTH。
O’ERfieldandplain，inchildhood’sartlessdays，Thousprang’stwithme，onmanyaspring-mornfair。
Forsuchadaughter，withwhatpleasingcare，WouldI，asfather，happydwellingsraise！
Andwhenthouontheworlddidstcastthygaze，Thyjoywastheninhouseholdtoilstoshare。
WhydidItrusther，whyshetrustmee’er？
Forsuchasister，howIHeavenshouldpraise！
Nothingcannowthebeauteousgrowthretard。
Love’sglowingflamewithinmybreastisfann’d。
ShallIembraceherform，mygrieftoend？
TheeasaqueenmustI，alas，regard：
Sohighabovemeplacedthouseem’sttostand。
BeforeapassinglookImeeklybend。
1807？——
FOODINTRAVEL。
IFtohereyes’brightlustreIwereblind，Nolongerwouldtheyservemylifetogild。
Thewillofdestinymustbefulfilid，——
Thisknowing，Iwithdrewwithsadden’dmind。
NofurtherhappinessInowcouldfind：
Theformerlongingsofmyheartwerestill’d。
Isoughtherlooksalone，whereontobuildMyjoyinlife，——allelsewasleftbehind。
Wine’sgenialglow，thefestalbanquetgay，Ease，sleep，andfriends，allwontedpleasuresgladIspurn’d，tilllittlethereremain’dtoprove。
NowcalmlythroughtheworldIwendmyway：
ThatwhichIcravemayeverywherebehad，WithmeIbringtheonethingneedful——love。
1807？——
DEPARTURE。
WITHmanyathousandkissnotyetcontent，AtlengthwithOnekissIwasforcedtogo。
Afterthatbitterparting’sdepthofwoe，Ideem’dtheshorefromwhichmystepsIbent，Itshills，streams，dwellings，mountains，asIwent，Apledgeofjoy，tilldaylightceasedtoglow。
ThenonmysightdidblissfulvisionsgrowInthedim-lighted，distantfirmament，Andwhenatlengththeseaconfinedmygaze，Myardentlongingfill’dmyheartoncemore。
WhatIhadlost，unwillinglyIsought。
ThenHeavenappear’dtosheditskindlyrays：
MethoughtthatallIhadpossess’dofyoreRemain’dstillmine——thatIwasreftofnought。
1807？——
THELOVINGONEWRITES。
THElookthatthysweeteyesonmineimpressThepledgethylipstomineconvey，——thekiss，——
Hewho，likeme，hathknowledgesureofthis，Canheinaughtbesidefindhappiness？
Removedfromthee，friend-sever’d，indistress，ThesethoughtsIvainlystruggletodismiss：
Theystillreturntothatonehourofbliss，Theonlyone。thentearsmygriefconfess。
Butunawaresthetearmakeshastetodry：
Heloves，methinks，e’entothesegladessostill，——
Andshaltnotthoutodistantlandsextend？
Receivethemurmursofhislovingsigh。
Myonlyjoyonearthisinthywill，Thykindlywilltow’rdme。atokensend！
1807？——
THELOVINGONEONCEMORE。
WHYdoIo’ermypaperoncemorebend？
Asknottooclosely，dearestone，IprayFor，tospeaktruth，I’venothingnowtosay。
Yettothyhandsatlength’twillcome，dearfriend。
SinceIcancomenotwithit，whatIsendMyundividedheartshallnowconvey，Withallitsjoys，hopes，pleasures，pains，to-day：
Allthishathnobeginning，hathnoend。
HenceforwardImayne’ertotheeconfideHow，farasthought，wish，fancy，will，canreach，Myfaithfulheartwiththineissurelyblended。
ThusstoodIonceenrapturedbythyside，Gazedonthee，andsaidnought。Whatneedofspeech？
Myverybeinginitselfwasended。
1807？——
SHECANNOTEND。
WHENuntotheeIsentthepageallwhite，Insteadoffirstthereoninscribingaught，Thespacethoudoubtlessfilledstupinsport。
Andsentitme，tomakemyjoygrowbright。
Assoonasthebluecovermetmysight，Aswellbecomesawoman，quickasthoughtItoreitopen，leavinghiddennought，Andreadthewell-knownwordsofpuredelight：
MYONLYBEING！DEARESTHEART！SWEETCHILD！
HowkindlythoumyyearningthendidststillWithgentlewords，enthrallingmetothee。
IntruthmethoughtIreadthywhispersmildWherewiththoulovinglymysouldidstfill，E’entomyselfforayeennoblingme。
1807？——
NEMESIS。
WHENthroughthenationsstalkscontagionwild，Wefromthemcautiouslyshouldstealaway。
E’enIhaveoftwithling’ringanddelayShunn’dmanyaninfluence，nottobedefil’d。
Ande’enthoughAmoroftmyhoursbeguil’d，Atlengthwithhimpreferr’dInottoplay，Andso，too，withthewretchedsonsofclay，Whenfourandthree-linedversestheycompil’d。
Butpunishmentpursuesthescofferstraight，Asifbyserpent-torchoffuriesledFrombilltovale，fromlandtoseatofly。
Ihearthegenie’slaughteratmyfate。
YetdoIfindallpowerofthinkingfledInsonnet-rageandlove’sfierceecstasy。
1807-8——
THECHRISTMAS-BOX。
THISbox，mineownsweetdarling，thouwiltfindWithmanyavariedsweetmeat’sformsupplied。
ThefruitsaretheyofholyChristmastide，Butbakedindeed，forchildren’susedesign’d。
I’dfain，inspeechessweetwithskillcombin’d，Poeticsweetmeatsforthefeastprovide。
Butwhyinsuchfrivolitiesconfide？
Perishthethought，withflatterytoblind！
Onesweetthingthereisstill，thatfromwithin，Withinusspeaks，——thatmaybefeltafar。
Thismaybewaftedo’ertotheealone。
Ifthouarecollectionfondcanstwin，Asifwithpleasuregleam’deachwell-knownstar，Thesmallestgiftthouneverwiltdisown。
1807