It is a lofty feeling, yet a kind, <br />Thus to be topped with leaves; -- to have a sense <br />Of honour-shaded thought,-- an influence <br />As from great nature's fingers, and be twined <br />With her old, sacred, verdurous ivy-bind, <br />As though she hallowed with that sylvan fence <br />A head that bows to her benevolence, <br />Midst pomp of fancied trumpets in the wind. <br />It is what's within us crowned. And kind and great <br />Are all the conquering wishes it inspires, <br />Love of things lasting, love of the tall woods, <br />Love of love's self, and ardour for a state <br />Of natural good befitting such desires, <br />Towns without gain, and hunted solitudes.<br /><br />James Henry Leigh Hunt<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/on-the-same-on-receiving-a-crown-of-ivy-from-keats/
