With reason hath deep silence and demur Seized us, though undismayed: long is the way123 And hard, that out of Hell leads up to light; Our prison strong, this huge convex of fire, 435 Outrageous to devour, immures us round124 Ninefold, and gates of burning adamant125 Barred over us prohibit all egress. These passed, if any pass, the void profound Of unessential Night receives him next126 440 Wide gaping, and with utter loss of being Threatens him, plunged in that abortive gulf.
inspiring words to escape hell
