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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


THE RIVER DUDDON: SONNET 12. HINTS FOR THE FANCY by WILLIAM WORDSWORTH

Poet Analysis

First Line: ON, LOITERING MUSE - THE SWIFT STREAM CHIDES US - ON!
Last Line: AND, IF THOU CANST, LEAVE THEM WITHOUT REGRET!

ON, loitering Muse -- the swift Stream chides us -- on!
Albeit his deep-worn channel doth immure
Objects immense portrayed in miniature,
Wild shapes for many a strange comparison!
Niagaras, Alpine passes, and anon
Abodes of Naiads, calm abysses pure,
Bright liquid mansions, fashioned to endure
When the broad oak drops, a leafless skeleton,
And the solidities of mortal pride,
Palace and tower, are crumbled into dust! --
The Bard who walks with Duddon for his guide,
Shall find such toys of fancy thickly set:
Turn from the sight, enamoured Muse -- we must;
And, if thou canst, leave them without regret!




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