Thursday, January 27, 2011

On His Blindness (John Milton, 1608-1674)

Portrait of John Milton, National Portrait Gallery, London
_________________________________________________________

When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodg'd with me useless, though my soul more bent

To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest he returning chide,
"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"
I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent

That murmur, soon replies: "God doth not need
Either man's work or his own gifts: who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state

Is kingly; thousands at his bidding speed
And post o'er land and ocean without rest:
They also serve who only stand and wait."

_________________________
Written circa 1652-1655

We are Indies




If you are an Indie writer,

please consider joining



on Facebook.