Love's Philosophy
The fountains mingle with the river,
And the rivers with the ocean;
The winds of heaven mix forever
With a sweet emotion;
Nothing in the world is single;
All things by a law divine
In another's being mingle--
Why not I with thine?
See, the mountains kiss high heaven,
And the waves clasp one another;
No sister flower could be forgiven
If it disdained its brother;
And the sunlight clasps the earth,
And the moonbeams kiss the sea;--
What is all this sweet work worth,
If thou kiss not me?
Commentary
I always did like “Love’s Philosophy”. It’s fluff, but enjoyable fluff.
This is Shelley in a rare, whimsical mood. It’s fairly unusual to find the poet speaking in this voice. Shelley can be difficult to appreciate, especially when he’s being thrust down one’s throat in high school (there was a point when “To a Skylark” made me want to throw things around the classroom), but I’ve since discovered he can be quite bearable.
— Divya
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From the Wondering Minstrels mailing list, 1999–2008.
Celine · 11 May 2004
I love Shelley, especially Ozymandias, but this poem doesn’t do it for me. It’s too soppy. Though I am sure one day I will find it fabulous, probably when I fall in love. For now, fluff with too much sugar.
Weldon Parry · 6 July 2006
I first read this poem in a college class that included Wordsworth, Coolridge, Keats and Byron … and was releaved to enjoy a sweet whimsical poem – it was a welcome respite. Years later I read it at my good friend’s wedding and next week it will be read at mine.
Flamenco Caravan · 10 July 2006
Song inspired my Shelley, Flamenco Caravan’s “Love’s Philosophy” www.flamencocaravan.ca the song written by Susanna DiGuiseppe, an english teacher.
Helenadamday · 15 April 2008
I’m writing a piece of music, Merch y Felin, and using this poem for a song- it sums up the sweetness and innocence of young love perfectly! Helen Adam