Wordsworth's Sonnet
The poet William Wordsworth was so impressed with Clarkson's achievements that he wrote a sonnet to him.
Sonnet, To Thomas Clarkson, On the final passing of the Bill for the Abolition of the Slave Trade, March, 1807.
- Clarkson! it was an obstinate Hill to climb:
- How toilsome, nay how dire it was, by Thee
- Is known,—by none, perhaps, so feelingly;
- But Thou, who, starting in thy fervent prime,
- Didst first lead forth this pilgrimage sublime,
- Hast heard the constant Voice its charge repeat,
- Which, out of thy young heart’s oracular seat,
- First roused thee.—O true yoke-fellow of Time
- With unabating effort, see, the palm
- Is won, and by all Nations shall be worn!
- The bloody Writing is for ever torn,
- And Thou henceforth wilt have a good Man’s calm,
- A great Man’s happiness; thy zeal shall find
- Repose at length, firm Friend of human kind!
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- William Wordsworth
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Read more about this topic: Thomas Clarkson
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