“FROM THE DARK CHAMBERS OF DEJECTION FREED”
FROM the dark chambers of dejection freed, Spurning the unprofitable yoke of care, Rise, GILLIES, rise; the gales of youth shall bear Thy genius forward like a winged steed. Though bold Bellerophon (so Jove decreed In wrath) fell headlong from the fields of air, Yet a rich guerdon waits on minds that dare, If aught be in them of immortal seed, And reason govern that audacious flight Which heavenward they direct.–Then droop not thou, 10 Erroneously renewing a sad vow In the low dell ‘mid Roslin’s faded grove: A cheerful life is what the Muses love, A soaring spirit is their prime delight. 1814.