Poems (Hornblower)/Perfection
For works with similar titles, see Perfection.
PERFECTION.
Perfection is from effort. Noblest deeds,And faculties accomplished to their ends,And tempered powers, and thoughts attuned like chords,To all earth's harmonies, to draw sweet musicEven from discordant things,and blend the wholeIn one celestial strain,—this is not doneLike the light sweeping of a full-toned lyre. Perfection is from effort,—nights of studyOf nature's solemn lore; not idle dreams,But reveries that reach the starry heavens,And read their shining wonders with delight,And a mysterious awe; and days of toilThrough the linked paths of science, (intricateAs labyrinthine wonders, yet pure truthRunning through all their mazes,) still to chaseWith an unwearied ardour; and calm evesOf deep and blissful prayer to consecrate,And rise from earth,—its hopes, and fears, and caresCast like an earthly garment, till the soulStands disencumbered at the throne of God,Filled with all blest aspirings; this is notLike a child's careless game; it is a taskFor an immortal spirit.—Ancient heroesAchieved no greater victory; though they diedIn arms, to save their country; for the battle,The holy battle for eternal truth,'Midst the conflicting forces of the world,Perverseness, error, passion, is still nobler.