Sonnet Xxiii. Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

THE mind's deep history here in tones is wrought, The faith, the struggles of the aspiring soul, The confidence of youth, the chill control Of manhood's doubts by stern experience taught; Alternate moods of bold and timorous thought, Sunshine and shadow — cloud and aureole; The failing foothold as the shining goal Appears, and truth so long, so fondly sought Is blurred and dimmed. Again and yet again The exulting march resounds. We must win now! Slowly the doubts dissolve in clearer air. Bolder and grander the triumphal strain Ascends. Heaven's light is glancing on the brow, And turns to boundless hope the old despair.