"Glory and light of all the tuneful train!
May it avail me, that I long with zeal
Have sought thy volume, and with love immense
Have conn'd it o'er. My master thou, and guide!
Thou he from whom alone I have derived
That style, which for its beauty into fame
Exalts me.

In this heartfelt tribute, Dante acknowledges the profound influence of Virgil on his own literary craft. By addressing Virgil as the "glory and light," Dante elevates him as the pinnacle of poetic greatness. This line underscores the reverence Dante held for Virgil's work, which he studied with "zeal" and "love immense." Declaring Virgil as both "master" and "guide," Dante establishes a direct lineage between Virgil's influence and his own burgeoning fame, attributing his stylistic prowess to the Roman poet's inspiration. This passage also reflects Dante's broader philosophical journey, as he seeks guidance from the embodiment of Human Philosophy. By grounding his journey in the wisdom and artistry of Virgil, Dante aligns himself with a tradition of thought and creativity that seeks to transcend moral failings and elevate the soul. The passage encapsulates the tension between human fallibility and the aspiration for divine understanding, marking a pivotal moment in Dante's journey through "The Divine Comedy."