The Ways of the Spirit [1]

What points ascending Nature to her goal?
’Tis not man’s lame transcribing intellect
With its carved figures rigid and erect
But the far subtle vision of his soul.

His instruments have served his weakness well
But they must change to tread the paths of Fire
That lead through his calm self immeasurable
To the last rapture’s incandescent spire.

The spirit keeps for him its ample ways,
A sense that takes the world into our being,
A close illumined touch and intimate seeing,
Wide Thought that is a god’s ensphering gaze,

A tranquil heart in sympathy with all,
A will wide-winging, armed, imperial.

Notes on Text
Circa 1934 – 35. Four handwritten manuscripts.