The spirit of Darkness, when this shapeless sphere,
Sped through vast spaces, barren, cold and lightless,
Proud of its empire over chaos sightless,
Cried unto God, “Thy power I do not fear!

“No will of thine can my black glory mar,
I shall exist supreme above and under!”
And as it spake the heavens were rent asunder,
While high in luminous air there dawned a star!