Aubrey Thomas de Vere (1814–1902)

CREATURES all eyes and brows, and tresses streaming

By speed divine blown back; within, all fire

Of wondering zeal, and storm of bright desire;—

Round the broad dome the immortal throngs are beaming:

With elemental powers the vault is teeming.

We gaze, and, gazing, join the fervid choir,

In spirit launched on wings that ne’er can tire,

Like those that buoy the breasts of children dreaming.

The exquisitest hand that e’er in light

Revealed the subtlest smile of new-born pleasure

The depth here fathoms, and attains the height;

Is strong the strength of heavenly hosts to measure;

Draws back the azure curtain of the skies,

And antedates our promised Paradise.