On the Life-Mask of Lincoln

This bronze doth keep the very form and mould Of our great martyr’s face. Yes, this is he: That brow all wisdom, all benignity; That human, humorous mouth; those cheeks that hold Like some harsh landscape all the summer’s gold; That spirit fit for sorrow, as the sea For storms to beat on; the lone agony Those silent, patient lips too well foretold. Yes, this is he who ruled a world of men As might some prophet of the elder day,— Brooding above the tempest and the fray With deep-eyed thought and more than mortal ken. A power was his beyond the touch of art Of armèd strength: his pure and mighty heart.

Collection: 
English
Richard Watson Gilder
Sub Title: 
Descriptive Poems: I. Personal: Rulers; Statesmen; Warriors

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