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Classic and Contemporary Poetry
SONNETS TO MIRANDA: 7, by WILLIAM WATSON Poet Analysis Poet's Biography
First Line: Man, said the chief of sophists, is born free
Last Line: Lady! Is gathered up and sheaved in you.
Alternate Author Name(s): Watson, John William
Subject(s): Beauty; Freedom; Soul; Liberty
First Line: Man, said the chief of sophists, is born free
Last Line: Lady! Is gathered up and sheaved in you.
Alternate Author Name(s): Watson, John William
Subject(s): Beauty; Freedom; Soul; Liberty
"MAN," said the chief of sophists, "is born free,
And he is everywhere in chains." -- Ah well,
There are beneficent bonds, and, truth to tell,
There is uncovetable liberty.
And you too wear the shackles men decree
For them of proudest station, and yet dwell
Untrammelled, mistress of the citadel
Of your own mind, yourself unchangeably.
And I, that oftentimes have gone astray
Ev'n from myself and wisest self-control,
Feel, when I see your outward beauty's ray
Shine cloudless, that all inward beauty too,
All sweetness of the heart and mind and soul,
Lady! is gathered up and sheaved in you.
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