Classic Poem

All the strength of youth enjoying,
Forth I went afar to roam;
Giving up the childish toying
Of my dear parental home.

All my wealth, on faith relying,
Willingly I left behind;
With a pilgrim's staff defying
All the world with simple mind.

For a mighty inspiration
Urged me on in tones sincere: —
Saying " go, 'tis thy vocation
To pursue a high career.

If thou seest a golden portal
Enter it without delay:
Things of earth are there immortal
And shall never pass away. "

Morn and eve in due procession
Followed; never did I rest;
But I sought in dark depression,
Never nearer to my quest.

In my way stood precipices,
Torrents hemmed my path below;
Over rivers and abysses
Crazy bridges I must throw.

Then at last I found a river
Rolling toward the glowing East,
And with a confiding quiver,
Hurled myself upon its breast.

Down to the unbounded ocean
The resistless waters roll,
Tossing me with merry motion —
But no nearer is my goal!

For no bridge can span the distance;
And, alas! the heavenly sphere
Lends to earth no close assistance:
And the There is never Here!