Classic Poem

The voice of Lowood speaks subdued
In the deep shadowy solitude
Inured to loneliness — I know
No gloom in that communing low
Of tree with tree and gale with gale
Telling to each a plaintive tale

Unhonoured, little thought of now
I come to rest my weary head
Where leafy branch and ivied bough
Their canopy of calm will spread
And dreams will dawn like angel's bright
From the long vista's tender light

Have many lived as I have lived
Existence but a reverie
Born all for kindness yet b[e]reaved
Of human smiles and sympathy
Passing through scenes of grandeur high
And doomed with noble hearts to dwell
Burning with love yet forced to sigh
That none will mark that passion swell
Yes one, by fiery glimpses oft

The cloud enkindling changed to flame
Then sun and balm immingling soft
To melt the frozen winter came
And even I have tasted joy
Pure, bright from heaven without alloy

Yet strange it seems — that born to be
A being all unchained and free
With powers of bliss all self contained