Classic Poem

WHEREIN HE ADDRESSES THE PO, ON LEAVING LAURA

Po, on thy powerful impetuous tide
Thou mayst this most corporeal shadow bear
Beyond; but the large spirit lodging there
Neither thy force nor any force may guide:
On generous winds, not pulled to either side,
It yearns against thy current, scorning air
And ocean, oar and sail to seek the lair
Of the proud laurel and the laurel's pride.
O lord of rivers, sultan of the east,
Thou dost confront the horses of the sun,
And, at his setting, leave a ruddier feast!
This flesh and thy resistless flood are one —
But by the loftier purpose of Love's plumes
My spirit speeds — its radiant nest resumes!