Gazing on Douglas Bay

(After Catullus, the Roman lyrical poet)

To me he seems a god, no less,

Who on the headland pensive stands,

More than a god, let me confess,

To see those sands.

 

Those gaily-peopled stretches that he views;

But, Douglas, when on you I gaze,

The vision doth so much bemuse

I’m in a daze.

 

My tongue is dumb; a subtle joy

Flows through my heart; to common sound

My ears are deaf; my eyes employ

Treasure new found.

 

To you, Catullus, Roman shores

And purpled isles gave much delight;

Here would I gaze, my heaven, not yours,

Equally right !

 

Weekly Times  28.7.61