Clear spirits, which in images set forth The ways of nature by fine imitation, Are oft forced to hyperboles of worth, As oft again to monstrous declination, So that their heads must lined be, like the sky, For all opinion's arts to traffic by. Dull spirits again, which love all constant grounds, As comely veils for their unactiveness, Are oft forced to contract, or stretch their bounds, As active power spreads her beams more or less, For though in nature's wane these guests come forth, Can place, or stamp make current aught but worth? | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE FRIEND OF HUMANITY AND THE KNIFE-GRINDER by GEORGE CANNING ON FIRST ENTERING WESTMINSTER ABBEY by LOUISE IMOGEN GUINEY A HOUSE by JOHN COLLINGS SQUIRE THE POWERFUL by WILLIAM ROSE BENET IDYLL 16. TO THE EVENING STAR by BION THE BATTLE OF CHARLESTOWN by HENRY HOWARD BROWNELL SONNETS FROM THE PORTUGUESE: 10 by ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING |