Ode IX(II); At Study
Whither did my fancy stray? By what magic drawn away Have I left my studious theme? From this philosophic page, From the problems of the sage, Wandering thro' a pleasing dream? 'Tis in vain alas! I find, Much in vain, my zealous mind Would to learned wisdom's throne Dedicate each thoughtful hour: Nature bids a softer power Claim some minutes for his own. Let the busy or the wise View him with contemptuous eyes; Love is native to the heart: Guide its wishes as you will; Without Love you'll find it still Void in one essential part. Me though no peculiar fair Touches with a lover's care; Though the pride of my desire Asks immortal friendship's name, Asks the palm of honest fame, And the old heroic lyre; Though the day have smoothly gone, Or to letter'd leisure known, Or in social duty spent; Yet at eve my lonely breast Seeks in vain for perfect rest; Languishes for true content.
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"Whither did my fancy stray?..."
"Ode IX(II); At Study" is a quintessential example of Mark Akenside's signature style... ### Why We Love This Line At Linespedia, we believe that poetry is the ultimate sanctuary for the soul...