Hollander Sonnet: 13 lines of 13 syllables each.


I was like an astronaut gazing toward the earth.
I was in awe at the magnificence before me ,
So I tried to walk in the direction of the sea;
(The brilliant green would surely give my life some mirth)
I was unsuccessful because I lacked gravity.
Akin to Jupiter’s they were parted by a ring.
The beautiful land seemed one of infinite spring,
In contrast to my place where winter reigned continually:
Fireflies don’t sparkle, bluebirds, nightingales never sing.
She called my name; I was lost in the universe’s eyes
That like magician’s watch, with time had me hypnotized.
Coming closer I estimated what she might bring:
When she said, “Fool, leave me be!” I thought her words were lies.