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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

A BOOK OF AIRS: SONG 32 by THOMAS CAMPION

Poem Explanation Poet Analysis

First Line: SHALL I COME, IF I SWIM? WIDE ARE THE WAVES, YOU SEE:
Last Line: SO THROUGH THE STREAMS LEANDER DID ENJOY HER SIGHT.
Subject(s): DESIRE;
SHALL I come, if I swim? wide are the waves, you see:
Shall I come, if I fly, my dear Love, to thee?
Streams Venus will appease; Cupid gives me wings;
All the powers assist my desire
Save you alone, that set my woful heart on fire!

You are fair, so was Hero that in Sestos dwelt;
She a priest, yet the heat of love truly felt.
A greater stream than this did her love divide;
But she was his guide with a light:
So through the streams Leander did enjoy her sight.



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