XXVII

You, by Rome astonished, who gaze here
On ancient pride, once threatening the skies,
These old palaces, where the brave hills rise,
Walls, archways, baths, the temples that appear:

Judge, as you view these ruins, shattered, sere,
All that injurious Time’s devoured: the wise
Architect and mason, their plans devise
Still from these fragments, these patterns clear:

Then note how Rome, still, from day to day,
Rummaging through her ancient decay,
Renews herself with hosts of sacred things:

You’d think the Roman spirit yet alive,
With destined hands continuing to strive,
That to these dusty ruins, new life brings.