Classic Poem

Power unexpended grows to bitterness,
And Love subdued will turn to timorous shame.
Faith unexpressed is but an idle name.
Give tears to Sorrow, wouldst thou sorrow less.
Impulse by action doth itself confess,
Nor credulous ears give we unto the claim
Of such as seek to build an airy fame
Upon the huge intention they possess.

But O, without thine aid, life-giving Joy,
What seeds of sweet accomplishment must die!
The sunless earth, upon whose breast they lie,
Is but a tomb which doth their life destroy.
Thou art the radiant power beneath whose beam
Deeds come to life, and dull endeavours gleam.