Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, SONNET, by JOHN COWPER POWYS


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

SONNET, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Oft have I sung how ocean woos the stars
Last Line: Can it be love? Ah, god! If I were sure!
Subject(s): Heaven; Moon; Praise; Soul; Paradise


Oft have I sung how ocean woos the stars,
And how the love-pale moonbeams woo the sea,
But never have I dared to break the bars
That hide my soul's dim sanctuary from me.
As there is light the utmost stars beyond,
And unexpressive gems make glad the deep,
So 'neath thine eyelids violet-clouded sleep,
A secret dwells that all my harpings fond
Are weak to celebrate and dumb to praise.
It is not joy, for joy my heart knows well,
Nor purity, for thy whole self art pure;
It is not worship, for thy youthful days
In easy utterance their reverence tell --
Can it be love? ah, God! if I were sure!





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