---

Francis Thompson - Epilogue
Work rating: Low

If I have studied here in part
A tale as old as maiden`s heart,
   `Tis that I do see herein
   Shadow of more piteous sin.

She, that but giving part, not whole,
Took even the part back, is the Soul:
   And that so disdain-ed Lover--
   Best unthought, since Love is over.

Love to invite, desire, and fear,
And Love`s exactions cost too dear
   Count for Love`s possession,--ah,
   Thy way, misera Anima!

To give the pledge, and yet be pined
That a pledge should have force to bind,
   This, O Soul, too often still
   Is the recreance of thy will!

Out of Love`s arms to make fond chain,
And, because struggle bringeth pain,
   Hate Love for Love`s sweet constraint,
   Is the way of Souls that faint.

Such a Soul, for saddest end,
Finds Love the foe in Love the friend;
   And--ah, grief incredible!--
   Treads the way of Heaven, to Hell.
Source
The script ran 0.001 seconds.