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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SONNET TO A FRIEND WHO ASKED, HOW I FELT ... MY INFANT TO ME by SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE

Poet Analysis

First Line: CHARLES, MY SLOW HEART WAS ONLY SAD, WHEN FIRST
Last Line: AND DEARER WAS THE MOTHER FOR THE CHILD.
Subject(s): MOTHERS; PARENTS; PARENTHOOD;

CHARLES, my slow heart was only sad, when first
I scanned that face of feeble infancy;
For dimly on my thoughtful spirit burst
All I had been, and all my babe might be!
But when I saw it on its Mother's arm,
And hanging at her bosom (she the while
Bent o'er its features with a tearful smile),
Then I was thrilled and melted, and most warm
Impressed a Father's kiss; and all beguiled
Of dark remembrance, and presageful fear,
I seemed to see an Angel's form appear--
'Twas even thine, beloved Woman mild!
So for the Mother's sake the Child was dear,
And dearer was the Mother for the Child.



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