When I behold what pleasure is pursuit, What life, what glorious eagerness it is; Then mark how full possession falls from this, How fairer seems the blossom than the fruit -- I am perplexed, and often stricken mute Wondering which attained the higher bliss, The wingèd insect, or the chrysalis It thrust aside with unreluctant foot. Spirit of verse, that still elud'st my art, Thou uncaught rapture, thou swift-fleeting fire, O let me follow thee with hungry heart If beauty's full possession kill desire! Still flit away in moonlight, rain, and dew, Will-of-the-wisp, that I may still pursue!