Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, NATURE, by WILLIAM ELLERY CHANNING (1817-1901)


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

NATURE, by             Poem Explanation         Poet's Biography
First Line: I love the universe, - I love the joy
Alternate Author Name(s): Channing Ii, William Ellery
Subject(s): Transcendentalism


I love the universe,-I love the joy
Of every living thing. Be mine the sure
Felicity, which ever shall endure;
While passion whirls the madmen, as they toy,


To hate, I would my simple being warm
In the calm pouring sun; and in that pure
And motionless silence, ever would employ
My best true powers, without a thought's annoy.


See and be glad! O high imperial race,
Dwarfing the common altitude of strength,
Learn that ye stand on an unshaken base;


Your powers will carry you to any length.
Up! earnestly feel the gentle sunset beams;
Be glad in woods, o'er sands,-by marsh, or streams






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