‘The Inward Light’ and Other Poetry by Ann Keith

The Inward Light

Be proof against the eye and ear
And every sense that stultifies
The inward light, supreme, austere,
The keenly sharp, the keenly clear,
That by the lucent beam it darts
Illuminates the deepest hearts.

Sonnet on Discernment

All varied lengths and waves are there:  The ear
Receives their tones; the soul perceives and weighs
Each separate shade of light and sound that plays
Upon it subtly in the atmosphere.

Become discerning slowly by severe
Self-discipline,  it isolates the rays
Of beneficial influence and obeys
Their summons and endeavors to draw near.

Desiring always purity, release
From bonds and false misshapings that decrease
The vigor of its vision, as a flower
Turns to the sun, the soul must never cease
To move towards that source of radiant peace
That draws it steadily at every hour.

Featured Image: “Sunset, Lake George, New York” by Jasper Francis Cropsey (1823-1900).