On His Extremis

...lest we forget that there's a backstory to every important work, it was on this date in 1667 that John Milton, blind and impoverished, sold the copyright to his recently-completed PARADISE LOST for £10. I have a soft spot for Milton. I've never read Paradise Lost, but "On His Blindness" is a deeply affecting old favorite. When I consider how my light is spent Ere half my days in this dark world and wide, And that one talent which is death to hide Lodg'd with me useless, though my soul more bent To serve therewith my Maker, and present My true account, lest he returning chide, "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent That murmur, soon replies: "God doth not need Either man's work or his own gifts: who best Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state Is kingly; thousands at his bidding speed And post o'er land and ocean without rest: They also serve who only stand and wait." Hat tip to Lawrence Wilkinson.