Live Stream: If I could think how these my thoughts to leave by Sir Philip Sidney

Written by Rachael Norris, 14th July 2020

XXI. If I could think how these my thoughts to leave

IF I could think how these my thoughts to leave;

Or thinking still my thoughts might have good end:

If rebel sense would reason’s law receive;

Or reason foiled would not in vain contend:

Then might I think what thoughts were best to think;

Then might I wisely swim, or gladly sink.

If either you would change your cruel heart;

Or cruel still, time did your beauty stain;

If from my soul, this love would once depart;

Or for my love, some love I might obtain:

Then might I hope a change or ease of mind;

By your good help, or in myself to find.

But since my thoughts in thinking still are spent,

With reason’s strife, by sense’s overthrow;

You fairer still, and still more cruel bent;

I loving still a love, that loveth none:

I yield and strive; I kiss and curse the pain,

Thought, reason, sense, time, you and I maintain.

Sir Philip Sidney

The Reader's Head of Publications, Frances Macmillan, shares today's reading of 'Ulysses' by Alfred Lord Tennyson In May the theme…

Teaching and Learning Leader, Katie Clark, shares today's reading 'Sonnet 116' by William Shakespeare. In May the theme for our…

Teaching and Learning Coorindator, Lisa Spurgin, reads 'There's a Certain Slant of Light' by Emily Dickinson. In May the theme…

Contact us

Get in touch and be part of the story
You can also speak to us on: 0151 729 2200