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1770–1850

XLIV

William Wordsworth

Even such the contrast that, where'er we move, To the mind's eyeReligion doth present; Now with her own deep quietness content; Then, like the mountain, thundering from above

Against the ancient pine-trees of the grove And the Land's humblest comforts. Now her mood Recals the transformation of the flood, Whose rage the gentle skies in vain reprove,

Earth cannot check. O terrible excess Of headstrong will! Can this be Piety? No — some fierce Maniac hath usurped her name; And scourges England struggling to be free:

Her peace destroyed! her hopes a wilderness! Her blessings cursed — her glory turned to shame!

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XLIV · William Wordsworth · Poetry Cove