On Love
July 6, 2023If Death be Good
July 6, 2023Lord of my Heart’s Elation
Lord of my heart’s elation,
Spirit of things unseen,
Be thou my aspiration
Consuming and serene!
Bear up, bear out, bear onward
This mortal soul alone,
To selfhood or oblivion,
Incredibly thine own,—
As the foamheads are loosened
And blown along the sea,
Or sink and merge forever
In that which bids them be.
I, too, must climb in wonder,
Uplift at thy command,—
Be one with my frail fellows
Beneath the wind’s strong hand,
A fleet and shadowy column
Of dust or mountain rain,
To walk the earth a moment
And be dissolved again.
Be thou my exaltation
Or fortitude of mien,
Lord of the world’s elation,
Thou breath of things unseen!
William Bliss Carman
William Bliss Carman (1861-1929) was a Canadian poet who was associated with the Confederation Poets. He is known for his celebration of nature and for his use of imagery and symbolism. His most famous works include "Low Tide on Grand Pré" and "The Rough Rider." Carman was also a professor of English at Harvard University and a mentor to many younger poets.