Basilius Monologue from Life Is a Dream

From Life Is a Dream by Pedro Calderón de la Barca

male · dramatic · 1:03 min

Who can expect, Astolfo, to restrain An untamed steed that wildly turns to flee? Who can the current of a stream detain, That swollen with pride sweeps down to seek the sea? Who can prevent from tumbling to the plain Some mighty peak the lightning's flash sets free? Yet each were easier in its separate way, Than the rude mob's insensate rage to stay. The several bands that throng each green retreat This truth proclaim by their disparted cries; Astolfo here the echoing notes repeat, While there 'tis Sigismund that rends the skies The place where late the land was glad to greet The choice we made, a second venture tries; And soon will be, as Horror o'er it leans, The fatal theatre of tragic scenes.

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