English poem
Xxi
by Emile Verhaeren (1855–1916)
In those hours when we seem shut out From all that is not part of us, What cleansing flood is it, so nebulous, That bathes and circles our two hearts about? Joining our hands, without a prayer, Arm to arm, without a cry, Seeking we know not what nor where, Something far off, more pure than thou or I-- Thou fervent soul, oh say How does one live in this yearned-for day?
In those high hours how deep doth grow our will In front of life's supremacies! What need of other heavens still, Wherein with newer gods to cope! What anguish and what ecstasies, And what unflinching hope To be, one day, Through death itself, the prey Of these far silent agonies!