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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

BALLATA: 9. HE WILL GAZE UPON BEATRICE, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: Because mine eyes can never have their fill
Last Line: Save of him who, desiring, honors her.
Alternate Author Name(s): Dante; Alighieri, Dante
Subject(s): Italian Renaissance; Love


Because mine eyes can never have their fill
Of looking at my lady's lovely face,
I will so fix my gaze
That I may become blessed beholding her.
Even as an angel, up at his great height
Standing amid the light,
Becometh blessed by only seeing God: --
So, though I be a simple earthly wight,
Yet none the less I might,
Beholding her who is my heart's dear load,
Be blessed, and in the spirit soar abroad.
Such power abideth in that gracious one;
Albeit felt of none
Save of him who, desiring, honors her.





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