Descend, prophetic Spirit![2] that inspir'st

The human Soul of universal earth,

Dreaming on things to come;[R] and dost possess

A metropolitan temple in the hearts

Of mighty Poets: upon me bestow

A gift of genuine insight; that my Song

With star-like virtue in its place may shine,

Shedding benignant influence, and secure,

Itself, from all malevolent effect

Of those mutations that extend their sway