by Coleridge · Cluster: Guilt · Conscience · Fate and Free Will
Abstract
Stern reproach in Nature’s voice asking what was done with the gifts of innocence, hope, health and genius, now returned as guilt and despair. Themes of conscience, the Fall and self-reproach.
Connections
Themes & Concepts: Conscience, Guilt, Innocence and Experience, Sin and the Fall, Mortality, Disillusionment Forms & Genres: Epigram
Testo integrale / Full text
Is’t returned, as ‘twas sent? Is’t no worse for the wear? 5
Think first, what you are! Call to mind what you were!
I gave you innocence, I gave you hope,
Gave health, and genius, and an ample scope.
Return you me guilt, lethargy, despair?
Make out the invent’ry; inspect, compare! 10
Then die — if die you dare!
1811.