The Poetry Corner

Memorials Of A Tour On The Continent, 1820 - VII. - In The Cathedral At Cologne

By William Wordsworth

O for the help of Angels to complete This Temple, Angels governed by a plan Thus far pursued (how gloriously!) by Man, Studious that He might not disdain the seat Who dwells in heaven! But that aspiring heat Hath failed; and now, ye Powers! whose gorgeous wings And splendid aspect yon emblazonings But faintly picture, 'twere an office meet For you, on these unfinished shafts to try The midnight virtues of your harmony: This vast design might tempt you to repeat Strains that call forth upon empyrean ground Immortal Fabrics, rising to the sound Of penetrating harps and voices sweet!