What is this life? A pearl in thy own shell to bear, in the flame’s heart to hurl thyself, nor melt to air.

Love is with speed to pass out of this shuttered sphere, to cast the moon’s bright glass high over heaven clear.

Power is from hand to fling the cash of heart and faith: To rule the world, a king, and brave the chance of death.

Philosophy is taught by manly zeal alone, to whet the blade of thought upon the world for stone.

The living spirit’s trust is no disordered dream, but of this scattered dust to build a braver scheme.