? ???? (Greek Poems - Poems and Prose Remains, Vol II)

By Arthur Hugh Clough

Reflective Poem
    I have seen higher holier things than these,     And therefore must to these refuse my heart,     Yet am I panting for a little ease;     Ill take, and so depart.     Ah, hold! the heart is prone to fall away,     Her high and cherished visions to forget,     And if thou takest, how wilt thou repay     So vast, so dread a debt?     How will the heart, which now thou trustest, then     Corrupt, yet in corruption mindful yet,     Turn with sharp stings upon itself! Again,     Bethink thee of the debt!     Hast thou seen higher, holier things than these,     And therefore must to these thy heart refuse?     With the true best, alack, how ill agrees     That best that thou wouldst choose!     The Summum Pulchrum rests in heaven above;     Do thou, as best thou mayst, thy duty do     Amid the things allowed thee live and love;     Some day thou shalt it view.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem presents a profound exploration of the human struggle between spiritual aspiration and worldly desires. It's a tension between the speaker's recognition of a higher, holier plane of existence, and the allure of worldly pleasures or reprieve. The primary theme revolves around moral and spiritual conflict, questioning the human ability to maintain integrity amidst temptation.

The tone of the poem fluctuates between contemplation, self-reproach, and resignation, creating a dynamic emotional landscape which reflects the internal turmoil of the speaker. The structure of the poem, consisting of four-line stanzas with a consistent rhyme scheme, provides a sense of order and harmony that contrasts with the discord presented in the content.

Notable literary devices include personification of the heart, which is portrayed as an independent entity with its own will and susceptibility to fallibility. This serves to externalize the speaker's inner conflict, emphasizing the struggle between the spiritual and the worldly. The repetitive questioning and exclamation also enhance the introspective and urgent nature of the poem. Finally, the use of "Summum Pulchrum"—Latin for "the highest beauty"—marks a clear dichotomy between the divine and the earthly, suggesting that true beauty and goodness are beyond this world, even as the speaker acknowledges the need to engage with the "things allowed" in the here and now. This tension between the ideal and the real, the spiritual and the temporal, is the heartbeat of the poem.

Understanding Reflective Poetry

Reflective poetry is a form of verse that explores the thoughts, emotions, and meditations of the poet. It often delves into personal experiences, memories, and philosophical musings, offering a window into the poet's inner world.

Reflective poems are characterized by their introspective nature, allowing readers to connect with the poet’s contemplations on life, existence, and the human condition. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Personal Reflection: These poems often center on the poet's own thoughts and feelings, offering a deep dive into their emotional or intellectual state.
  • Philosophical Musings: Reflective poetry frequently addresses larger existential questions, providing a space for the poet to ponder life’s meaning, purpose, and the nature of reality.
  • Imagery and Symbolism: Poets use vivid imagery and rich symbolism to convey their reflections, often drawing on nature, art, or personal experiences to express complex ideas.
  • Quiet and Contemplative Tone: Reflective poems typically have a calm, meditative tone, inviting readers to pause and reflect alongside the poet.

Reflective poetry provides a unique avenue for exploring the poet’s inner world, inviting readers to engage in their own reflections as they journey through the verses.