Archaic Bust Of Apollo

Delmore Schwartz

(After Rilke)

We cannot know the indescribable face
Where the eyes like apples ripened. Even so,
His torso has a candelabra’s glow,
His gaze, contained as in a mirror’s grace,

Shines within it. Otherwise his breast
Would not be dazzling. Nor would you recognize
The smile that moves along his curving thighs,
There where love’s strength is caught within its nest.

This stone would not be broken, but intact
Beneath the shoulders’ flowing cataract,
Nor would it glisten like a stallion’s hide,

Brimming with radiance from every side
As a star sparkles. Now it is dawn once more.
All places scrutinize you. You must be reborn.

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• Delmore Schwartz : Concerning The Synthetic Unity Of Apperception
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• Delmore Schwartz : Faust In Old Age
• Delmore Schwartz : For The One Who Would Not Take His Life In His Hands
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