Faust monologue (Act 6) — Faust: A Tragedy

What seek ye here, ye gently-swaying tones, Sweet seraph-music 'mid a mortal's groans? Soft-natured men may own that soothing chaunt; I hear the message, but the faith I want. For still the child to Faith most dear Was Miracle: nor I may vaunt To mount, and mingle with the sphere Whence such fair news floats down to mortal ear. And yet, with youthful memories fraught, this strain Hath power to call me back to life again. A time there was when Heaven's own kiss, On solemn Sabbath, seemed to fall on me, The minster-bell boomed forth no human bliss, And prayer to God was burning ecstasy. A dim desire of inarticulate good Drove me o'er hill and dale, through wold and wood, And, while hot tears streamed from mine eyes, I felt a world within me rise. This hymn proclaimed the sports of youthful days, And merry-makings when the spring began; Now Memory's potent spell my spirit sways, And thoughts of childhood rule the full-grown man. O! sound thou on, thou sweet celestial strain, The tear doth gush, Earth claims her truant son again!