Splendour! O more than mortal, For other forms come short all Of her illustrate brightness, As far as sin's from lightness. Her wit as quick, and sprightful As fire; and more delightful Than the stol'n sports of lovers, When night their meeting covers. Judgement (adorned with learning) Doth shine in her discerning, Clear as a naked vestal Closed in an orb of crystal. Her breath for sweet exceeding The phoenix place of breeding, But mixed with sound, transcending All nature of commending. Alas: then whither wade I, In thought to praise this lady; When seeking her renowning, Myself am so near drowning? Retire, and say; her graces Are deeper than their faces: Yet she's nor nice to show them, Nor takes she pride to know them. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THEY SAY - . by JEAN STARR UNTERMEYER AN INVITE TO ETERNITY by JOHN CLARE TO MY DEAR FRIEND, MR. CONGREVE, ON HIS COMEDY, 'THE DOUBLE-DEALER' by JOHN DRYDEN VIRGILS GNAT: DEDICATORY SONNET by EDMUND SPENSER |