XX

 
Exactly as the rain-filled cloud is seen
Lifting earthly vapours through the air,
Forming a bow, and then drinking there
By plunging deep in Tethys’ hoary sheen,

Next, climbing again where it has been,
With bellying shadow darkening everywhere,
Till finally it bursts in lightning glare,
And rain, or snow, or hail shrouds the scene:

This city, that was once a shepherd’s field,
Rising by degrees, such power did wield,
She made herself the queen of sea and land,

Till helpless to sustain that huge excess,
Her power dispersed, so we might understand
That all, one day, must come to nothingness.