Classic Poem

The lure that hangs above the unseen heights
Comes from the gathered mist. The unknown sea
Enthralls us by her vast profundity;
It is the cryptic which the soul invites:
The Muse ascends in her immortal flights
To wing the borders of infinity: —
Mother of all the Faiths, thou, Mystery,
The sealed fountain of divine delights!

Shall man dissect the violet? Must we tear
The precious rose of poisy apart
That it reveal its beauty? Shall we wear
Outside our breast the bruised human heart
Nor veil the sacred fount? ... Oh, rather shroud
The poet's meaning in the golden cloud!