The Great Breath

Its edges foamed with amethyst and rose,

Withers once more the old blue flower of day:

There where the ether like a diamond glows

Its petals fade away.

A shadowy tumult stirs the dusky air;

Sparkle the delicate dews, the distant snows;

The great deep thrills, for through it everywhere

The breath of Beauty blows.

I saw how all the trembling ages past,

Moulded to her by deep and deeper breath,

Neared to the hour when Beauty breathes her last

And knows herself in death.

Notes: Originally published in Homeward: Songs by the Way, 1894