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1837–1909

XXII

Algernon Charles Swinburne

Of such is the kingdom of heaven, No glory that ever was shed From the crowning star of the seven That crown the north world's head,

No word that ever was spoken Of human or godlike tongue, Gave ever such godlike token Since human harps were strung.

No sign that ever was given To faithful or faithless eyes Showed ever beyond clouds riven So clear a Paradise.

Earth's creeds may be seventy times seven And blood have defiled each creed: If of such be the kingdom of heaven, It must be heaven indeed.

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XXII · Algernon Charles Swinburne · Poetry Cove