Skip to content
1837–1909

III

Algernon Charles Swinburne

Far off westward, whither sets the sounding strife, Strife more sweet than peace, of shoreless waves whose glee Scorns the shore and loves the wind that leaves them free, Strange as sleep and pale as death and fair as life,

Shifts the moonlight-coloured sunshine on the sea. Toward the sunset's goal the sunless waters crowd, Fast as autumn days toward winter: yet it seems Here that autumn wanes not, here that woods and streams

Lose not heart and change not likeness, chilled and bowed, Warped and wrinkled: here the days are fair as dreams.

Cookies on Poetry Cove

We use cookies to remember your language preference and — only with your consent — to learn how Poetry Cove is used. You can change your mind any time.
III · Algernon Charles Swinburne · Poetry Cove