Classic Poem

Rose ! from the gross earth drawing up
Wherewith to fill your scented cup,
Your secret tell, that our emprise
May be as wise.

Lilies! that from such noisome pools
Distil such sweets, expound your rules;
That we the gracious hint may share,
And grow as fair: —

We, formed for noblest ends, who yet
Our high prerogative forget,
Letting our earthliness prevent
The purpose meant.

For the same fair design that shows
Supreme in lily and in rose,
Whereby they draw from vilest springs
Divinest things,

Rules, too, for us, save that we spurn
The high intent and fail to learn
The wholesome secret, fail to see
Our destiny.

Oh, to be wise and wisely use
Life's frets and hindrances! to choose
The good they yield, — nay, make the ill
Subservient still! —

Wresting from loss supremest gain,
Triumph from failure, bliss from bane, —
As rose and lily charms unfold
From mire and mould.