POEM

by: Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564)

AVISHED by all that to the eyes is fair,

Yet hungry for the joys that truly bless,

My soul can find no stair

To mount to heaven, save earth's loveliness.

For from the stars above

Descends a glorious light

That lifts our longing to their highest height

And bears the name of love.

Nor is there aught can move

A gentle heart, or purge or make it wise,

But beauty and the starlight of her eyes.

• Michelangelo Buonarroti: Bibliography - A selected bibliography of the works of Michelangelo Buonarroti; includes a list of critical resources.
• Purchase books by Michelangelo Buonarroti