Ten years ago it seemed impossible <br />That she should ever grow so calm as this, <br />With self-remembrance in her warmest kiss <br />And dim dried eyes like an exhausted well. <br />Slow-speaking when she had some fact to tell, <br />Silent with long-unbroken silences, <br />Centered in self yet not unpleased to please, <br />Gravely monotonous like a passing bell. <br />Mindful of drudging daily common things, <br />Patient at pastime, patient at her work, <br />Wearied perhaps but strenuous certainly. <br />Sometimes I fancy we may one day see <br />Her head shoot forth seven stars from where they lurk <br />And her eyes lightnings and her shoulders wings.<br /><br />Christina Georgina Rossetti<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/in-progress/
