They have made virgin words of that soiled alphabet

Wherewith have been written histories of sorrow,

Labour and long defeat, and proud and vain conquest;

And all their lore is those sufficing words.

Magnificent they match the music of a name

Against abhorred Silence and terrors of the abyss,

The trust of a smile against all-ignoring Night,

And one low voice against Oblivion’s greed.

Difference drew them to the enamoured wrestle,

Chosen, inevitable dear antagonists;