The Cloud

I am the daughter of Earth and Water, And the nursling of the Sky; I pass through the pores of the ocean and shores; I change, but I cannot die.

For after the rain when with vain repentance, I get the sun put up in a pleasing way; I go round the world with a little song to say: I am the little cloud that scarcely sleeps!

I can wrap the Earth in clouds. Shrouded in a distant haze I will cover the Earth with a greenish silk And adorn the brightened page.

I am not dead—I am alive, I am just enfolded in grays; And when I pass through the sky I find I am in one with all my immense haunts.

The blue I hear sang with each storm, And when the light cast itself Through thy eyes upon the sea; I will rest my heart under the gates of peace;— In a gentle voice prepare to play!

• Percy Bysshe Shelley