The Black Spot

Poem by Gérard De Nerval Period 19th century

Whoever has stared at the sun fixedly
Believes he sees before his eyes obstinately flying
Around him, in the air, a livid spot.

Thus, still young and more audacious,
On glory for a moment I dared to fix my eyes:
A black spot has remained in my eager gaze.

Since then, mingled with everything like a sign of mourning,
Everywhere, on whatever place my eye comes to rest,
I see it settle there too, the black spot!

What, forever? Between me ceaselessly and happiness!
Oh! it is that only the eagle — woe to us, woe!
Contemplates with impunity the Sun and Glory.

Gérard de Nerval

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