A Spark Remembered

 

A friend's words, a flicker, and suddenly, there it is – the echo of teenage wonder, the intoxicating scent of first loves whispered in verse. My mind, once again, walks among the giants of poetry, Byron, Keats, Browning, their voices resonating with youthful fervor.

And tonight, I share with you a gem from Byron's crown, a poem born of a single, breathtaking encounter.

Imagine, if you will, a grand ball, the murmur of society, the swirl of elegant gowns and polished smiles. Then, amidst it all, a vision – a woman whose beauty surpasses the glittering scene, capturing Byron's heart and demanding immediate expression.

This is "She Walks in Beauty," a testament to the transformative power of a single glance, a love letter penned in moonlight:

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o’er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express,
How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.

And on that cheek, and o’er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

Isn't that beautiful? The way he compares her to a starry night, the delicate balance of light and dark, and the final revelation that true beauty lies within, reflected in her gentle smile and innocent heart. A masterpiece, wouldn't you agree?

And who knows, perhaps this poem will rekindle your own literary spark, leading you down new paths of exploration and discovery. The world of poetry awaits, filled with countless voices waiting to be heard. So tell me, what other giants of verse capture your imagination? Where shall we explore next? Let the adventure begin!

Unlikely Buddha 2024