Idle Fame

John ClareContemplative

I would not wish the burning blaze Of fame around a restless world, The thunder and the storm of praise In crowded tumults heard and hurled. I would not be a flower to stand The stare of every passer-bye; But in some nook of fairyland, Seen in the praise of beauty's eye.

John Clare

Mood:: Contemplative
Topics:: fame, fancy, contentment, solitude, beauty

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Summary

John Clare’s speaker gently pushes away the noisy, demanding side of being known. He pictures fame as a “burning blaze” and a “storm of praise” — all heat, thunder, and jostling crowds. That kind of attention feels restless and hollow to him, more like an assault than a gift.

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I would not wish the blaze

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Idle Fame

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'Twas here my summer paused

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