Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, AFFINITIES, by CHARLES BAUDELAIRE


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AFFINITIES, by             Poem Explanation     Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Pillars that live vast nature's fane displays
Last Line: With strange harmonious transports sense and soul.


PILLARS that live vast Nature's fane displays,
Whence issue words confused, that mix and blend--
There men through forests of dark symbols wend
That ever watch them with familiar gaze.

As far-off echoes, dimly heard, combine,
And in one deep and clouded voice unite,
As darkness vast, or all pervading light--
Perfumes and sounds, and hues in concert join.

Fresh as sweet childhood's bloom some perfumes are,
As hautboys soft, and green as meads in spring;
Some luscious and corrupt, yet stronger far

That long endure, and wide their odours fling
Like incense, musk, benzoin, which control
With strange harmonious transports sense and soul.





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