The charms of melody, in simple airs, By human voices sung, are always felt; With thoughts responsive careless hearers melt, Of secret ills, which our frail nature bears. We listen, weep, forget. But when the throng Of a great master's thoughts, above the reach Of words or colors, wire and wood can teach By laws which to the spirit-world belong — When several parts, to tell one mood combined, Flash meaning on us we can ne'er express, Giving to matter subtlest powers of mind, Superior joys attentive souls confess: The harmony which suns and stars obey, Blesses our earth-bound state with visions of supernal day. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...IN ANSWER TO MR. POPE by ANNE FINCH TO WORDSWORTH by FELICIA DOROTHEA HEMANS DISCONTENTS IN DEVON by ROBERT HERRICK LINES by FRANKLIN PIERCE ADAMS SHEEP AT MOUNTAIN PASTURE by MARGARET CARROLL BRADY WATCHING AND WISHING by CHARLOTTE BRONTE |