Vexation waits on passion's changeful glow

[ZaunköniG]

Vexation waits on passion's changeful glow,
But th' intellect may rove a thousand ways
And yet be calm while fluctuating so ;
The dew-drop shakes not to its shifting rays
And transits of soft light—be bold to choose
This never satiate freedom of delight
Before the fiery bowl and red carouse,
And task for joy thy soul's majestic might ;
So for the sensual will be rarer need,
So will thy mind a giant force assume.
Strong as the center of the deep Maelstroom
When flung into the calm of sightless speed :
^
So wilt thou scorn on lowlier aims to feed.
And go in glory to a sage's tomb !