John Milton

These eyes, tho' clear
To outward view of blemish or of spot,
Bereft of light, their seeing read more

These eyes, tho' clear
To outward view of blemish or of spot,
Bereft of light, their seeing have forgot,
Nor to their idle orbs doth sight appear
Of sun, or moon, or star, throughout the year,
Or man, or woman. Yet I argue not
Against Heaven's hand or will, not bate a jot
Of heart or hope; but still bear up and steer
Right onward.

Taste this, and be henceforth among the Gods thyself a Goddess.

Taste this, and be henceforth among the Gods thyself a Goddess.

Here may we reign secure, and in my choice
To reign is worth ambition, though in Hell.
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Here may we reign secure, and in my choice
To reign is worth ambition, though in Hell.
Better to reign in hell than serve in heaven.

Athens, the eye of Greece, mother of arts
And eloquence.

Athens, the eye of Greece, mother of arts
And eloquence.

Under the sooty flag of Acheron,
Harpies and Hydras.

Under the sooty flag of Acheron,
Harpies and Hydras.