Classic Poem

The Subject-matter moulds the writer's pen—
While painters treat of Objects in their ken,
And deal directly with the surface shown
To re-present the living touch and tone;
External beauty forms their ample claim—
Essential beauty is the writer's aim.
How shall a painter truthfully portray
The form and face of matter passed away?
How shall he re-present and realize
The thing that 's dead and lost to living eyes?
Some speak of antique style in modern art.
Did ever Modern play an antique part?
The painter paints the picture of his hour,
And paints no other with historic pow'r.