Nugae Canorae | ||
195
SONNET XXI.
[Ye buds obedient to the breath of spring]
30th March, 1803.
Ye buds obedient to the breath of spring,
Why with no wonted smile are ye caress'd?
Thou soul of Love that, borne on zephyr's wing,
Dost steal unseen within the soften'd breast,
Who, blessing and tormenting, know'st to bring
Soft sighs, inquietudes, and many a guest
That hint of dangerous joy, why dost thou wring,
Not sooth my spirit to delicious rest?
'Tis that I seek what human heart ne'er found,
A world where Love, Truth, Peace, their laws maintain;
'Tis that I ask on this polluted ground,
For wells of living water! Spring-tide train,
Urging a hopeless wish, 'tis thus ye wound,
To seek the more for what I seek in vain.
Nugae Canorae | ||