The Poetry Corner

To a Republican Friend, 1848 - Continued

By Matthew Arnold

Yet, when I muse on what life is, I seem Rather to patience prompted, than that prowl Prospect of hope which France proclaims so loud, France, famd in all great arts, in none supreme. Seeing this Vale, this Earth, whereon we dream, Is on all sides oershadowd by the high Unoerleapd Mountains of Necessity, Sparing us narrower margin than we deem. Nor will that day dawn at a human nod, When, bursting through the network superposd By selfish occupation, plot and plan, Lust, avarice, envy liberated man, All difference with his fellow man composd, Shall be left standing face to face with God