The Poetry Corner

Sonnet LXXXIX. Subject Continued.

By Anna Seward

Yon late but gleaming Moon, in hoary light Shines out unveil'd, and on the cloud's dark fleece Rests; - but her strengthen'd beams appear to increase The wild disorder of this troubled Night. Redoubling Echos seem yet more to excite The roaring Winds and Waters! - Ah! why cease Resolves, that promis'd everlasting peace, And drew my steps to this incumbent height? I wish! - I shudder! - stretch my longing arms O'er the steep cliff! - My swelling spirits brave The leap, that quiets all these dire alarms, And floats me tossing on the stormy wave! But Oh! what roots my feet? - what spells, what charms The daring purpose of my Soul enslave?