The Retrospect (1812) [ Concepts ]
… Earth the peace of Heaven. 'Twas not that in the narrow sphere Where Nature fixed my wayward fate There was no friend or kindred dear Formed to become that spirit's mate, Which, searching on tired pinion, found Barren and cold repulse around; … struggling flight. Oh, many were the friends whom fame Had linked with the unmeaning name, Whose magic marked among mankind The casket of my unknown mind, Which hidden from the vulgar glare Imbibed no fleeting radiance there. My darksome spirit sought—it found A friendless solitude around. For who that might undaunted stand, The saviour of a sinking land, Would crawl, its ruthless tyrant's slave, And fatten upon Freedom's grave, Though doomed with her to perish, …
Poetry | Friendship | Nature
Anthology