FROM the fierce aspect of this river, throwing His giant body o'er the steep rock's brink, Back in astonishment and fear we shrink: But, gradually a calmer look bestowing, Flowers we espy beside the torrent growing; Flowers that peep forth from many a cleft and chink, And, from the whirlwind of his anger, drink Hues ever fresh, in rocky fortress blowing: They suck -- from breath that, threatening to destroy, Is more benignant than the dewy eve -- Beauty, and life, and motions as of joy: Nor doubt but He to whom you pine-trees nod Their heads in sign of worship, Nature's God, These humbler adorations will receive. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...HAIL COLUMBIA by JOSEPH HOPKINSON ORPHEUS AND EURYDICE: THE POWER OF MUSIC by SAMUEL LISLE GARDEN DAYS: 6. AUTUMN FIRES by ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON THE DEPARTED by JOHN BANISTER TABB THE GRAVE OF SHELLEY by OSCAR WILDE |