She Walks in Beauty

There are some images, that when seen, instantly poke at something inside you. When I first saw this editorial, it reminded me of my favorite poem-one I have memorized. It's Lord Byron's 'She Walks in Beauty' and it's such a beautiful poem, and one of
his most famous works.

It was published in 1815 as a part of his volume Hebrew Melodies which was set to music. The poem was inspired by actual events in Byron’s life. Once while at a ball Byron happened upon a beautiful woman as she walked by. That woman was Byron’s cousin by marriage, Mrs. John Wilmot, and the next morning the poem was written. She was in mourning, wearing a black dress set with spangles, which would explain the opening lines.

Don't even get me started on this dress... Altuzarra Fall 2010. Ah.maz.ing. And perfect for this poem, no? (You are always able to click to enlarge photos-please look at this one full-size!)

She Walks in Beauty

BY LORD BYRON (GEORGE GORDON)

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o’er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express,
How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.

And on that cheek, and o’er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

Via: wikipedia, photo: Maryna Linchuk for Vogue Turkey by Ellen von Unwerth