The Daemon of the World

By Percy Bysshe Shelley

"The Daemon of the World" is an evocative poem penned by Percy Bysshe Shelley, embodying the Romantic spirit through its exploration of metaphysical themes and the nature of existence. Written in 1816, this work integrates lyrical beauty with a philosophical inquiry into the ideal versus the real, portraying a melancholic yet transcendent vision of humanity's struggles for truth and enlightenment. Shelley's masterful use of vivid imagery and innovative structure lends a compelling rhythm to the verses, illustrating the inner turmoil of the 'Daemon'—a representation of the destructive forces within the human soul and society. Percy Bysshe Shelley, a leading figure in the Romantic movement, was a visionary poet driven by profound philosophical and political ideals. His experiences, including his radical stance against tyranny and societal norms, undoubtedly influenced the composition of "The Daemon of the World." Shelley's inclination towards idealism and the sublime often reflects personal and societal disillusionments, revealing a complex relationship with both nature and the human condition. For readers interested in the rich interplay of emotion, philosophy, and nature that characterizes Romantic literature, "The Daemon of the World" is essential. Shelley's profound insights and lyrical prowess invite an intimate reflection on the darker aspects of existence, making this poem not just a literary work but a clarion call to confront the existential dilemmas that continue to resonate today.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sharp Ink
• Release date: May 19, 2021
• ISBN: 9788028238780

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792–1822) was one of the major English Romantic poets and is regarded by critics as one of the finest lyric poets in the English language.

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Percy Bysshe Shelley

The Daemon of the World

Sharp Ink Publishing

2024

Contact: [e-mail]

ISBN 978-80-282-3878-0

Table of Contents

Cover

Titlepage

PART 1.

PART 2.

PART 1.

Table of Contents

     Nec tantum prodere vati,

     Quantum scire licet. Venit aetas omnis in unam

     Congeriem, miserumque premunt tot saecula pectus.

     LUCAN, Phars. v. 176.

       How wonderful is Death,

       Death and his brother Sleep!

     One pale as yonder wan and horned moon,

       With lips of lurid blue,

     The other glowing like the vital morn,                        5

       When throned on ocean's wave

       It breathes over the world:

     Yet both so passing strange and wonderful!

     Hath then the iron-sceptred Skeleton,

     Whose reign is in the tainted sepulchres,                    10

     To the hell dogs that couch beneath his throne

     Cast that fair prey? Must that divinest form,

     Which love and admiration cannot view

     Without a beating heart, whose azure veins

     Steal like dark streams along a field of snow,               15

     Whose outline is as fair as marble clothed

     In light of some sublimest mind, decay?

       Nor putrefaction's breath

     Leave aught of this pure spectacle

       But loathsomeness and ruin?—                               20

       Spare aught but a dark theme,

     On which the lightest heart might moralize?

     Or is it but that downy-winged slumbers

     Have charmed their nurse