Sonnet VIII

 Oft as by chance, a little while apart 
The pall of empty, loveless hours withdrawn, 
Sweet Beauty, opening on the impoverished heart, 
Beams like the jewel on the breast of dawn: 
Not though high heaven should rend would deeper awe 
Fill me than penetrates my spirit thus, 
Nor all those signs the Patmian prophet saw 
Seem a new heaven and earth so marvelous; 
But, clad thenceforth in iridescent dyes, 
The fair world glistens, and in after days 
The memory of kind lips and laughing eyes 
Lives in my step and lightens all my face, -- 
So they who found the Earthly Paradise 
Still breathed, returned, of that sweet, joyful place.

Form: Sonnet Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace