English poem
Grand Manan
by Marian Longfellow (1849–1924)
(1881)
O solemn cliffs of Grand Manan! In silent might ye rise, As bounded by th' eternal sea And by the azure skies!
Like a proud soul that stands apart, Unknown, unloved, unsought, Ye guard your stronghold silently Through many battles fought.
The sea-gull sweeps across your wall, And seaward shapes his course! While at your feet the waves beat loud In measure wild and hoarse.
O solemn heights! O grand and calm! Ye hold my heart in thrall! And not a sound is heard beyond The ocean's rise and fall.
But as the waves beat strong and loud Upon your rugged shore, Through it the sea's sad monotone I hear forevermore!
The sunset glow hath kissed your heights, As loth to leave you yet; And, bathed in glories red and gold, The eve and you have met.
The boat speeds on--we may not stay, But from my brooding heart Your image, while this life remains, Can nevermore depart!