The Scholar

From “Edwin the Fair” THIS life, and all that it contains, to him Is but a tissue of illuminous dreams Filled with book-wisdom, pictured thought and love That on its own creations spends itself. All things he understands, and nothing does. Profusely eloquent in copious praise Of action, he will talk to you as one Whose wisdom lay in dealings and transactions; Yet so much action as might tie his shoe Cannot his will command; himself alone By his own wisdom not a jot the gainer. Of silence, and the hundred thousand things ’T is better not to mention, he will speak, And still most wisely.

Collection: 
English
1820
Sir Henry Taylor
Sub Title: 
Poems of Sentiment: IV. Thought: Poetry: Books

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