Cambridge’s reputation is often portrayed almost exclusively as something scientific or mathematic. But the contribution to the arts is no less stunning and especially amongst the poets. From Milton to Plath, Dryden to Helen Mort and George the Poet, their words have enriched our lives, inspired, consoled, motivated and created quiet moments of wonder. There’s a miscellany of richness.
Here’s a few:
I hold it true, whate’er befall;
I feel it, when I sorrow most;
‘Tis better to have loved and lost
Than never to have loved at all.
“In Memoriam A.H.H.” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson (Trinity 1827)
Better to reign in Hell,
then serve in HEAV’N
“Paradise Lost” by John Milton (Christ’s 1625)
She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes…”
“She Walks in Beauty” by Lord Byron (Trinity 1805)
If I should die, think only this of me:
That there’s some corner of a foreign field
That is for ever England.
“The Soldier” by Rupert Brooke (King’s 1906)
Love set you going like a fat gold watch.
The midwife slapped your footsoles, and your bald cry
Took its place among the elements.
“Morning Song” by Sylvia Plath (Newnham 1955)