This extract from the poem “Paracelsus” by Robert Browning [1812-1889] is another example of the insight many of the “Romantic Poets” had into spiritual life. He married Elizabeth Barrett, also a poet, who was keenly interested in spiritualism.
Truth is within ourselves; it takes no rise
From outward things, whate'er you may believe.
There is an inmost centre in us all
Where truth abides in fulness; and around,
Wall upon wall, the gross flesh hems it in,
This perfect , clear perception - which is truth,
A baffling and perverting carnal mesh
Binds it, and makes all error: and, to KNOW,
Rather consists in opening out a way
Whence the imprisoned splendour may escape,
Than in effecting entry for a light
Supposed to be without.
Portrait by Herbert Rose Barraud (1845 – ca.1896) – Bonhams, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28401440
Total Page Visits: 1641
