Poem by John Donne

Holy Sonnet 13. What if this present were the world's last night?

What if this present were the world's last night?
Mark in my heart, O soul, where thou dost dwell,
The picture of Christ crucified, and tell
Whether His countenance can thee affright.
Tears in His eyes quench the amazing light;
Blood fills his frowns, which from His pierced head fell;
And can that tongue adjudge thee unto hell,
Which pray'd forgiveness for His foes' fierce spite?
No, no ; but as in my idolatry
I said to all my profane mistresses,
Beauty of pity, foulness only is
A sign of rigour ; so I say to thee,
To wicked spirits are horrid shapes assign'd;
This beauteous form assures a piteous mind.

1. Holy Sonnet 9. If poisonous minerals, and if that tree
2. Holy Sonnet 5. I am a little world made cunningly
3. Holy Sonnet 12. Why are we by all creatures waited on?
4. Holy Sonnet 18. Show me, dear Christ, thy spouse so bright and clear
5. Holy Sonnet 8. If faithful souls be alike glorified

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