Poem by Henry Alford

Written at Ampton, Suffolk, January, 1838

ONCE more I stray among this wilderness
Of ancient trees, and through the rustling fern,
Golden and sere, brush forward; at each turn
Meeting fresh avenues in winter dress
Of long gray moss, or yellow lichen bright;
While the long lines of intercepted shade,
Spread into distance through the turfy glade,
Checkered with rosy paths of evening light.
Here first I learned to tune my youthful thoughts
To themes of blessed import: woods and sky,
And waters, as they rushed or slumbered by,
For my poetic soul refreshment brought;
And now within me rise, unbidden long,
Fresh springs of life, fresh themes of earnest song.

1. Sonnet Written at a Distance from Home
2. Homer
3. Haddon Hall, Derbyshire, July, 1836
4. To the Stream in Worthy Dell, near Porlock
5. Written at Ampton, Suffolk

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