O world, thou choosest not the better part!
It is not wisdom to be only wise,
And on the inward vision close the eyes,
But it is wisdom to believe the heart.
Columbus found a world, and had no chart,
Save one that faith deciphered in the skies;
To trust the soul’s invincible surmise
Was all his science and his only art.
Our knowledge is a torch of smoky pine
That lights the pathway but one step ahead
Across a void of mystery and dread.
Bid, then, the tender light of faith to shine
By which alone the mortal heart is led
Unto the thinking of the thought divine.
(George Santayana)
More Poetry from George Santayana:
George Santayana Poems based on Topics: Mind, World, Thought & Thinking, Soul, Art, Wisdom & Knowledge, Mystery, Belief & Faith- To. W. P. (George Santayana Poems)
- Premonition (George Santayana Poems)
- Cape Cod (George Santayana Poems)
- The Poet's Testament (George Santayana Poems)
- A Toast (George Santayana Poems)
- The Power of Art (George Santayana Poems)
Readers Who Like This Poem Also Like:
Based on Topics: World Poems, Mind Poems, Soul Poems, Thought & Thinking Poems, Art Poems, Belief & Faith Poems, Wisdom & Knowledge Poems, Mystery PoemsBased on Keywords: deciphered, choosest