Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, THE SCULPTOR, by CONSTANCE CAROLINE WOODHILL NADEN


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE SCULPTOR, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Before the noblest from his genius wrought
Last Line: "nor peaceful happiness with strong desire."
Subject(s): Sculpture & Sculptors


BEFORE the noblest from his genius wrought
The sculptor stood: with awe, but not with pride,
He saw the image of his highest thought,
His inner self, transfigured, purified.

He spoke with sad emotion, half concealed,
Like one who sorrows, but would fain rejoice;
No glad content was in his eye revealed,
Nor any thought of triumph in his voice.

"This is my grand ideal. 'Twas for this
I gave my strength, while yet an eager boy;
Leaving fresh mirth for some diviner bliss,
Trusting to Hope my fair estate of joy.

"But hope is gone for ever. I am left
With this sublime fulfilment of my dreams;
Not of the midnight loveliness bereft,
Yet clear and steadfast in the noonday beams.

"Oh, that some charm were wanting! that some stain
Marred the ideal grace that my vision wore!
For I may live, but cannot hope again,
And I may toil, but shall advance no more.

"I saw my rival frown, his cheek turn pale,
In envy of the fame so dearly bought;
But this I know -- the hope of those who fail
Is better than the victory they sought.

"Yet in my heart some new delights may spring,
As humble flowers on lordly ruins live;
Still shall my work some tranquil pleasures bring,
Though not the ecstasy it once could give.

"I do not grieve that glowing youth is spent,
Nor would I quench the yet remaining fire;
Since lofty joy dwells not with calm content,
Nor peaceful happiness with strong desire."







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