Archaic Bust Of Apollo

Delmore Schwartz

 Next Poem          

We cannot know the indescribable face
Where the eyes like apples ripened. Even so,
His torso has a candelabra's glow,
His gaze, contained as in a mirror's grace,

Shines within it. Otherwise his breast
Would not be dazzling. Nor would you recognize
The smile that moves along his curving thighs,
There where love's strength is caught within its nest.

This stone would not be broken, but intact
Beneath the shoulders' flowing cataract,
Nor would it glisten like a stallion's hide,

Brimming with radiance from every side
As a star sparkles. Now it is dawn once more.
All places scrutinize you. You must be reborn.

Next Poem 

 Back to Delmore Schwartz
Get a free collection of Classic Poetry ↓

Receive the ebook in seconds 50 poems from 50 different authors


To be able to leave a comment here you must be registered. Log in or Sign up.

Comments2
  • mdh1348

    I'm just not feeling it with this one. Tried to get into it, but it's a bit pretentious and complex for my taste. All this symbolism and fancy language, just give me a straightforward story, yo.

    • karinadigiovanni

      SCHWARTZ'S POEM, TOO HARD FOR MY HOMEWORK!