Tristram of Lyonesse and Other Poems

Sonnets

A Study From Memory

Algernon Charles Swinburne


IF that be yet a living soul which here
    Seemed brighter for the growth of numbered springs
    And clothed by Time and Pain with goodlier things
Each year it saw fulfilled a fresh fleet year,
Death can have changed not aught that made it dear;
    Half humorous goodness, grave-eyed mirth on wings
    Bright-balanced, blither-voiced than quiring strings;
Most radiant patience, crowned with conquering cheer;
A spirit inviolable that smiled and sang
    By might of nature and heroic need
    More sweet and strong than loftiest dream or deed;
A song that shone, a light whence music rang
    High as the sunniest heights of kindliest thought;
    All these must be, or all she was be nought


Back    |    Words Home    |    Algernon Charles Swinburne Home    |    Site Info.    |    Feedback