CHAPTER III.
OF IMAGINATION PENETRATIVE.
Thus far we have been defining that combining operation of the imagination, which appears to be in a sort mechanical, yet takes place [§ 1. Imagination penetrative is concerned not with the combining but apprehending of things.]in the same inexplicable modes, whatever be the order of conception submitted to it, though I chose to illustrate it by its dealings with mere matter before taking cognizance of any nobler subjects of imagery. We must now examine the dealing of the imagination with its separate conceptions, and endeavor to understand not only its principles of selection, but its modes of apprehension with respect to what it selects.
When Milton's Satan first "rears from off the pool, his mighty stature," [§ 2. Milton's and Dante's description of flame.]the image of Leviathan before suggested not being yet abandoned, the effect on the fire-wave is described as of the upheaved monster on the ocean stream.
"On each hand the flames,
Driven backwards, slope their pointing spires, and rolled
In billows, leave in the midst a horrid vale."
And then follows a fiercely restless piece of volcanic imagery.
"As when the force
Of subterranean wind transports a hill
Torn from Pelorus, or the shattered side
Of thundering Ætna, whose combustible
And fuell'd entrails thence conceiving fire,
Sublimed with mineral fury, aid the winds,
And leave a singed bottom, all involved
With stench and smoke; such resting found the sole
Of unblest feet."
Yet I think all this is too far detailed, and deals too much with externals; we feel rather the form of the fire-waves than their fury, we walk upon them too securely, and the fuel, sublimation, smoke, and singeing, seem to me images only of partial combustion; they vary and extend the conception, but they lower the thermometer. Look back, if you will, and add to the description the glimmering of the livid flames; the sulphurous hail and red lightning; yet altogether, however they overwhelm us with horror, fail of making us thoroughly, unendurably hot. The intense essence of flame has not been given. Now hear Dante:—