To A Skylark
...t there.” “Thou art unseen, but yet I hear thy shrill delight.” His strong belief in this skylark shows a solid adoration towards it, making it clear that he won’t stop until he reaches an equal state of being. Shelley provides the mere argument that although something is not apparent to the naked eye; its presence is still recognized: “until we hardly see—we feel that it is there.” Shelly provides clarity towards the skylark’s practice of free will. “Like a poet hidden in the light of thought, singing hymns unbidden,” describes the compulsive, non-commanded choice to sing. Aside from using such auditory imagery, Shelley entices one’s olfaction by describing vibrant fragrances. “Like a rose embowered in its own green leaves, by warm winds deflowered till the scent it gives, makes faint with too much sweet those heavy winged thieves.” The skylark is depicted as a wise, knowledgeable character. Knowing more about death and truth than humans, Shelley asks the skylark various questions. “Waking or asleep, thou of death must deem things more true and deep than we mortals dream, or how could thy notes flow in such a crystal stream?” Although Shelley is aware that the skylark is sensible, he provides assurance that he is somewhat content with his life. “We look before and after, and pine for what is not.” Shelley is stating that he’s here on earth and actually desires to be here, and is pleased with the result. However, he would appreciate a more positive outlook on life. “Our sincerest laughter with some pain is frought; our sweetest songs are those that tell of saddest thought.” Shelley realizes that even if the removal of hate, pride and fear takes place, he ...