Classic Poem

ODE XXII


??Cleare, as untroubled waters from their Spring,
??And pure, as Innocence her Selfe can Sing,
Modest, as virgin Brides;
Whose gentle blushings, hides
What they expresse; Sweet, as the blooming Rose:
Faire, as the Earlie Morning, when she Showes
??Her golden Face, and Deawie Lockes doth tye
??In azure Fillets: Such be my Poesie;

??Not bound to flatter Titles; or let loose
??To vulgar passions, in the Times abuse;
Not limited; not Free
Further then modestie
Can warrant, in Each Syllable; not led
To Sooth opinion; neither soe much wed
??To my owne Sence, but I all formes may See
??In proper orbes: Such be my Poesie.

??Such be my Poesie: that number may
??In Clear expressions, all my Thoughts display;
Such Rapture fill my Thought,
As I may utter nought,
Beneath the dignitie, of a free Muse;
And guided, by my Genius, Chuse
??Objects sublime; adoreing God, the high
??Author of Truth: such be my Poesie.