WHEREIN HER DEATH IS INCREDIBLE, BUT, IF TRUE, LIFE WITHOUT HER IS EQUALLY SO

O misery! O portent shaped of terror!
Can it be true, then, that the sweet light goes
Before its time, my refuge from all woes,
Life of my will, physician to my error?
If so, why are not all things bleaker, barer
With one inclusive curse? Ah, God well knows
Nor He nor Nature could that chapter close,
Fulfill dark fears, blast hopes as fair — or fairer!
It still enchants my heart to wish once more
For the dear advent of that lovely vision,
The glory of our age, my ship, my shore.
But if that soul with heavenly derision
Have spurned earth for God's golden palace floor,
Ah Death, sweep down on wings of swift decision!