A Nod to the Masters~

There is just something about the works of the past. Greats like Edgar Allan Poe, William Blake, Oscar Wilde, along with countless others. Their words draw you in, painting pictures that leave a lasting impression. For this Monday, since my brain is tired and I’m steeped in research, I thought I would share a few of my favorite lines from those who came before us.

Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before. ~ The Raven, Edgar Allan Poe

Cruelty has a human heart, And Jealousy a human face;

Terror the human form divine, And Secrecy the human dress. ~A Divine Image, William Blake 

Ambition, love and all the thoughts that burn, We lose too soon, and only find delight, In withered husks of some dead memory. ~Desespoir, Oscar Wilde

Most of the themes of the past seemed steeped in darkness. Morbid…I think that was the word one of my friends used when I was discussing some of the above quotes. I guess I can see where one would see that as a commonality between them. Still, the words paint a picture. There is a poetic beauty to them regardless of their tone that really appeals to me. So tell me, who are some of your favorites from the past and are there any particular lines that really stick out to you?