Writing Poetry
Though only two entries (O14,
O15)
mention Louisa's writing poetry it might legitimately be expected
that she would write poetry much more frequently; for throughout the diary,
in addition to allusions traceable to well know poets like Milton, Pope,
and Young, there are a number of unidentified poetic outpourings, some
of which are likely original with her .
Indeed, even where the poeticizings are traceable to famous poets, only
a part is usually clearly traceable . As near as can be determined,
the greater portion seems to be Louisa's own work, or at least her own
rewording of a passage (possibly imperfectly remembered), or of a combination
of passages.
Almost all of her poetic utterances have for their subject some aspect
of external nature (the only exception being the apostrophe to Sleep of
A15
).
Night has thrown on her sable mantle, and I now prepare for
bed. A26
The beauty of Nature are beginning to fade, and chill winter will soon
spread his heavy mantle.--Then farewell, you rural walks and shady groves.
S8
I am preparing for winter. --For he approaches very fast, which prospect
then how hopeless. -- We find the fireside the only cheerful companion
when keen blows the north blast and heavy drives the snow. S16
The moon is in her full splendour and sheds her silver beams on all
around. How delightful to walk now we can view from Nature up to Nature's
God. O13
I think we shall drink October' s chilling tear ere Aurora with her
rosy fingers opens the golden gates of the east. O14
All was still, save the gentle breeze that curled the lake. Not a bird
was heard through all the wood. We were the only ones that intruded on
Nature' s dead repose. --How fast fly the hours when in the society of
those we esteem. The sun had sunk behind the hill ere we thought of home.
O16
Philosophical Moments |