THOMAS Cowper (1731-1800) projects himself with insight and sensitivity into the mental state of the Scottish castaway, known in literature as Robinson Crusoe.

from THE SOLITUDE OF ALEXANDER SELKIRK

I am monarch of all I survey;

My right there is none to dispute;

From the centre all round to the sea

I am lord of the fowl and the brute.

O Solitude! where are the charms

That sages have seen in they face?

Better dwell in the midst of alarms

Than reign in this horrible place.

I am out of humanity's reach,

I must finish my journey alone,

Never hear the sweet music of speech;

I start at the sound of my own.

The beasts that roam over the plain

My form with indifference see;

They are so unacquainted with man,

Their tameness is shocking to me.

Society, Friendship, and Love

Divinely bestow'd upon man,

O had I the wings of a dove

How soon would I taste you again!