THE WILD DUCK'S NEST
Composed 1819.—Published 1819
[I observed this beautiful nest on the largest island of Rydal Water.—I. F.]
One of the "Miscellaneous Sonnets."—Ed.
The imperial[363] Consort of the Fairy-king
Owns not a sylvan bower; or gorgeous cell[364]
With emerald floored, and with purpureal shell
Ceilinged and roofed; that is so fair a thing[365]
As this low structure, for the tasks of Spring,
Prepared by one who loves the buoyant swell
Of the brisk waves, yet here consents to dwell;
And spreads[366] in steadfast peace her brooding wing.
Words cannot paint the o'ershadowing yew-tree bough,
And dimly-gleaming Nest,—a hollow crown
Of golden leaves inlaid with silver down,
Fine as the mother's softest plumes allow:[367]
I gazed—and, self-accused while gazing, sighed
For human-kind, weak slaves of cumbrous pride![368]
VARIANTS:
[363] 1819.
ms.
Imperial . . .
[364] 1819.
ms.
Thy favourite home (albeit a bright cell
[365] 1819.
ms.
. . . is not so fair a thing
[366] 1819.
ms.
And spread . . .
[367] 1819.
The Nest a hollow diadem composed
Of russet leaves and down where lie enclosed
The tenderest cares that earthly laws allow:
[368] 1837.
I gaze—and almost wish to lay aside
Humanity, weak slave of cumbrous pride!