by Coleridge · Cluster: Artist and Society · Truth · Regency Georgian England
Abstract
A lyric thanking the Muse for refining the poet’s soul, softening sorrow into joy, and teaching pity and gentle satire of fashion and folly.
Connections
Topoi: Poet as Prophet Themes & Concepts: Imagination, Artist and Society, Satire of Society, Joy Forms & Genres: Lyric
Testo integrale / Full text
Tho’ no bold flights to thee belong;
And tho’ thy lays with conscious fear,
Shrink from Judgement’s eye severe,
Yet much I thank thee, Spirit of my song!
For, lovely Muse! thy sweet employ 5
Exalts my soul, refines my breast,
Gives each pure pleasure keener zest,
And softens sorrow into pensive Joy.
From thee I learn’d the wish to bless,
From thee to commune with my heart; 10
From thee, dear Muse! the gayer part,
To laugh with pity at the crowds that press
Where Fashion flaunts her robes by Folly spun,
Whose hues gay-varying wanton in the sun.
1789.