Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part I. - VI - Persecution
Lament! for Diocletian's fiery sword Works busy as the lightning; but instinct With malice ne'er to deadliest weapon linked Which God's ethereal store-houses afford: Against the Followers of the incarnate Lord It rages; some are smitten in the field Some pierced to the heart through the ineffectual shield Of sacred home; with pomp are others gored And dreadful respite. Thus was Alban tried, England's first Martyr, whom no threats could shake; Self-offered victim, for his friend he died, And for the faith; nor shall his name forsake That Hill, whose flowery platform seems to rise By Nature decked for holiest sacrifice.
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"Lament! for Diocletian's fiery sword..."
"Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part I. - VI - Persecution" is a quintessential example of William Wordsworth's signature style... ### Why We Love This Line At Linespedia, we believe that poetry is the ultimate sanctuary for the soul...