Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

Sir Gilbert Parker 1862–1932

Sonnets from “A Lover’s Diary.” I. Love’s Outset

Parker-G

AS one would stand who saw a sudden light

Flood down the world, and so encompass him,

And in that world illumined Seraphim

Brooded above and gladdened to his sight;

So stand I in the flame of one great thought,

That broadens to my soul from where she waits,

Who, yesterday, drew wide the inner gates

Of all my being to the hopes I sought.

Her words came to me like a summersong,

Blown from the throat of some sweet nightingale;

I stand within her light the whole day long,

And think upon her till the white stars fail:

I lift my head towards all that makes life wise,

And see no farther than my lady’s eyes.