Text

GoblinMarket,
ThePrincesProgress
andOtherPoems
ChristinaGeorginaRossetti
To
MYMOTHER
Inallreverenceandlove
Iinscribethisbook
CONTENTS
GOBLINMARKET,ANDOTHERPOEMS,1862
GoblinMarket
IntheRoundToweratJhansi,June8,1857
DreamLand
AtHome
ATriad
LovefromtheNorth
WinterRain
CousinKate
NobleSisters
Spring
TheLambsofGrasmere,1860
ABirthday
Remember
AfterDeath
AnEnd
MyDream
Song(Ohrosesfortheflushofyouth)
TheHourandtheGhost
ASummerWish
AnAppleGathering
Song(Twodovesupontheselfsamebranch)
MaudeClare
Echo
MySecret
AnotherSpring
APealofBells
FataMorgana
No,Thankyou,John
May
APauseofThought

TwilightCalm
WifetoHusband
ThreeSeasons
Mirage
Shutout
SoundSleep
Song(Shesatandsangalway)
Song(WhenIamdead,mydearest)
DeadbeforeDeath
BitterforSweet
SisterMaude
Rest
TheFirstSpringDay
TheConventThreshold
Uphill
DEVOTIONALPIECES
TheLoveofChristwhichpassethKnowledge
ABruisedReedshallHenotBreak
ABetterResurrection
Advent
TheThreeEnemies
TheOneCertainty
ChristianandJew
SweetDeath
Symbols
ConsidertheLiliesoftheField
TheWorld
ATestimony
SleepatSea
FromHousetoHome
OldandNewYearDitties:No.I
No.II
No.III
Amen
THEPRINCESPROGRESS,ANDOTHERPOEMS,1866
ThePrincesProgress
MaidenSong
JessieCameron
SpringQuiet

ThePoorGhost
APortrait
DreamLove
Twice
SongsinaCornfield
AYearsWindfalls
TheQueenofHearts
OneDay
ABirdsEyeView
LightLove
ADream
ARingPosy
BeautyisVain
LadyMaggie
WhatwouldIgive?
TheBourne
Summer
Autumn
TheGhostsPetition
Memory
ARoyalPrincess
ShallIForget?
VanityofVanities
L.E.L.
LifeandDeath
BirdorBeast?
Eve
GrownandFlown
AFarmWalk
SomewhereorOther
AChill
ChildsTalkinApril
GoneforEver
UndertheRose
DEVOTIONALPIECES
DespisedandRejected
LongBarren
Ifonly
DostthounotCare?
WearyinWelldoing
MartyrsSong

AfterthistheJudgement
GoodFriday
TheLowestPlace
MISCELLANEOUSPOEMS,184869
DeathsChillBetween
HeartsChillBetween
Repining
SitDownintheLowestRoom
MyFriend
LastNight
Consider
HelenGrey
BytheWatersofBabylon
Seasons
MotherCountry
ASmileandaSigh
DeadHope
AutumnViolets
TheyDesireaBetterCountry
TheOfferingoftheNewLaw
ConferencebetweenChrist,theSaints,andtheSoul
ComeuntoMe
Jesus,doILoveThee?
Iknowyounot
BeforethePalingoftheStars
EasterEven
Paradise:inaDream
WithintheVeil
Paradise:inaSymbol
AmorMundi
WhoshalldeliverMe?
If
TwilightNight
GoblinMarket,ThePrincesProgressandOtherPoems
GOBLINMARKET,ANDOTHERPOEMS,1862
GOBLINMARKET
Morningandevening
Maidsheardthegoblinscry:
Comebuyourorchardfruits,
Comebuy,comebuy:
Applesandquinces,
Lemonsandoranges,
Plumpunpeckedcherries,
Melonsandraspberries,
Bloomdowncheekedpeaches,
Swartheadedmulberries,10
Wildfreeborncranberries,
Crabapples,dewberries,
Pineapples,blackberries,
Apricots,strawberries;
Allripetogether
Insummerweather,
Mornsthatpassby,
Fairevesthatfly;
Comebuy,comebuy:
Ourgrapesfreshfromthevine,20
Pomegranatesfullandfine,
Datesandsharpbullaces,
Rarepearsandgreengages,
Damsonsandbilberries,
Tastethemandtry:
Currantsandgooseberries,
Brightfirelikebarberries,
Figstofillyourmouth,
CitronsfromtheSouth,
Sweettotongueandsoundtoeye;30
Comebuy,comebuy.
Eveningbyevening
Amongthebrooksiderushes,
Laurabowedherheadtohear,
Lizzieveiledherblushes:
Crouchingclosetogether
Inthecoolingweather,
Withclaspingarmsandcautioninglips,
Withtinglingcheeksandfingertips.
Lieclose,Laurasaid,40
Prickinguphergoldenhead:
Wemustnotlookatgoblinmen,
Wemustnotbuytheirfruits:
Whoknowsuponwhatsoiltheyfed
Theirhungrythirstyroots?
Comebuy,callthegoblins
Hobblingdowntheglen.
Oh,criedLizzie,Laura,Laura,
Youshouldnotpeepatgoblinmen.
Lizziecovereduphereyes,50
Coveredcloselesttheyshouldlook;
Laurarearedherglossyhead,
Andwhisperedliketherestlessbrook:
Look,Lizzie,look,Lizzie,
Downtheglentramplittlemen.
Onehaulsabasket,
Onebearsaplate,
Onelugsagoldendish
Ofmanypoundsweight.
Howfairthevinemustgrow60
Whosegrapesaresoluscious;
Howwarmthewindmustblow
Throughthosefruitbushes.
No,saidLizzie,No,no,no;
Theiroffersshouldnotcharmus,
Theirevilgiftswouldharmus.
Shethrustadimpledfinger
Ineachear,shuteyesandran:
CuriousLaurachosetolinger
Wonderingateachmerchantman.70
Onehadacatsface,
Onewhiskedatail,
Onetrampedataratspace,
Onecrawledlikeasnail,
Onelikeawombatprowledobtuseandfurry,
Onelikearateltumbledhurryskurry.
Sheheardavoicelikevoiceofdoves
Cooingalltogether:
Theysoundedkindandfullofloves
Inthepleasantweather.80
Laurastretchedhergleamingneck
Likearushimbeddedswan,
Likealilyfromthebeck,
Likeamoonlitpoplarbranch,
Likeavesselatthelaunch
Whenitslastrestraintisgone.
Backwardsupthemossyglen
Turnedandtroopedthegoblinmen,
Withtheirshrillrepeatedcry,
Comebuy,comebuy.90
WhentheyreachedwhereLaurawas
Theystoodstockstilluponthemoss,
Leeringateachother,
Brotherwithqueerbrother;
Signallingeachother,
Brotherwithslybrother.
Onesethisbasketdown,
Onerearedhisplate;
Onebegantoweaveacrown
Oftendrils,leaves,androughnutsbrown100
(Mensellnotsuchinanytown);
Oneheavedthegoldenweight
Ofdishandfruittoofferher:
Comebuy,comebuy,wasstilltheircry.
Laurastaredbutdidnotstir,
Longedbuthadnomoney:
Thewhisktailedmerchantbadehertaste
Intonesassmoothashoney,
Thecatfacedpurrd,
Theratfacedspokeaword110
Ofwelcome,andthesnailpacedevenwasheard;
Oneparrotvoicedandjolly
CriedPrettyGoblinstillforPrettyPolly;
Onewhistledlikeabird.
ButsweettoothLauraspokeinhaste:
Goodfolk,Ihavenocoin;
Totakeweretopurloin:
Ihavenocopperinmypurse,
Ihavenosilvereither,
Andallmygoldisonthefurze120
Thatshakesinwindyweather
Abovetherustyheather.
Youhavemuchgolduponyourhead,
Theyansweredalltogether:
Buyfromuswithagoldencurl.
Sheclippedapreciousgoldenlock,
Shedroppedatearmorerarethanpearl,
Thensuckedtheirfruitglobesfairorred:
Sweeterthanhoneyfromtherock,
Strongerthanmanrejoicingwine,130
Clearerthanwaterflowedthatjuice;
Shenevertastedsuchbefore,
Howshoulditcloywithlengthofuse?
Shesuckedandsuckedandsuckedthemore
Fruitswhichthatunknownorchardbore;
Shesuckeduntilherlipsweresore;
Thenflungtheemptiedrindsaway
Butgathereduponekernelstone,
Andknewnotwasitnightorday
Assheturnedhomealone.140
Lizziemetheratthegate
Fullofwiseupbraidings:
Dear,youshouldnotstaysolate,
Twilightisnotgoodformaidens;
Shouldnotloiterintheglen
Inthehauntsofgoblinmen.
DoyounotrememberJeanie,
Howshemettheminthemoonlight,
Tooktheirgiftsbothchoiceandmany,
Atetheirfruitsandworetheirflowers150
Pluckedfrombowers
Wheresummerripensatallhours?
Buteverinthenoonlight
Shepinedandpinedaway;
Soughtthembynightandday,
Foundthemnomore,butdwindledandgrewgrey;
Thenfellwiththefirstsnow,
Whiletothisdaynograsswillgrow
Whereshelieslow:
Iplanteddaisiesthereayearago160
Thatneverblow.
Youshouldnotloiterso.
Nay,hush,saidLaura:
Nay,hush,mysister:
Iateandatemyfill,
Yetmymouthwatersstill;
TomorrownightIwill
Buymore:andkissedher:
Havedonewithsorrow;
Illbringyouplumstomorrow170
Freshontheirmothertwigs,
Cherriesworthgetting;
Youcannotthinkwhatfigs
Myteethhavemetin,
Whatmelonsicycold
Piledonadishofgold
Toohugeformetohold,
Whatpeacheswithavelvetnap,
Pellucidgrapeswithoutoneseed:
Odorousindeedmustbethemead180
Whereontheygrow,andpurethewavetheydrink
Withliliesatthebrink,
Andsugarsweettheirsap.
Goldenheadbygoldenhead,
Liketwopigeonsinonenest
Foldedineachotherswings,
Theylaydownintheircurtainedbed:
Liketwoblossomsononestem,
Liketwoflakesofnewfallnsnow,
Liketwowandsofivory190
Tippedwithgoldforawfulkings.
Moonandstarsgazedinatthem,
Windsangtothemlullaby,
Lumberingowlsforboretofly,
Notabatflappedtoandfro
Roundtheirrest:
Cheektocheekandbreasttobreast
Lockedtogetherinonenest.
Earlyinthemorning
Whenthefirstcockcrowedhiswarning,200
Neatlikebees,assweetandbusy,
LaurarosewithLizzie:
Fetchedinhoney,milkedthecows,
Airedandsettorightsthehouse,
Kneadedcakesofwhitestwheat,
Cakesfordaintymouthstoeat,
Nextchurnedbutter,whippedupcream,
Fedtheirpoultry,satandsewed;
Talkedasmodestmaidensshould:
Lizziewithanopenheart,210
Laurainanabsentdream,
Onecontent,onesickinpart;
Onewarblingforthemerebrightdaysdelight,
Onelongingforthenight.
Atlengthsloweveningcame:
Theywentwithpitcherstothereedybrook;
Lizziemostplacidinherlook,
Lauramostlikealeapingflame.
Theydrewthegurglingwaterfromitsdeep;
Lizziepluckedpurpleandrichgoldenflags,220
Thenturninghomewardsaid:Thesunsetflushes
Thosefurthestloftiestcrags;
Come,Laura,notanothermaidenlags,
Nowilfulsquirrelwags,
Thebeastsandbirdsarefastasleep.
ButLauraloiteredstillamongtherushes
Andsaidthebankwassteep.
Andsaidthehourwasearlystill
Thedewnotfalln,thewindnotchill:
Listeningever,butnotcatching230
Thecustomarycry,
Comebuy,comebuy,
Withitsiteratedjingle
Ofsugarbaitedwords:
Notforallherwatching
Oncediscerningevenonegoblin
Racing,whisking,tumbling,hobbling;
Letalonetheherds
Thatusedtotrampalongtheglen,
Ingroupsorsingle,240
Ofbriskfruitmerchantmen.
TillLizzieurged,OLaura,come;
IhearthefruitcallbutIdarenotlook:
Youshouldnotloiterlongeratthisbrook:
Comewithmehome.
Thestarsrise,themoonbendsherarc,
Eachglowwormwinksherspark,
Letusgethomebeforethenightgrowsdark:
Forcloudsmaygather
Thoughthisissummerweather,250
Putoutthelightsanddrenchusthrough;
Thenifwelostourwaywhatshouldwedo?
Lauraturnedcoldasstone
Tofindhersisterheardthatcryalone,
Thatgoblincry,
Comebuyourfruits,comebuy.
Mustshethenbuynomoresuchdaintyfruit?
Mustshenomoresuchsuccouspasturefind,
Gonedeafandblind?
Hertreeoflifedroopedfromtheroot:260
Shesaidnotonewordinherheartssoreache;
Butpeeringthrothedimness,noughtdiscerning,
Trudgedhome,herpitcherdrippingalltheway;
Socrepttobed,andlay
SilenttillLizzieslept;
Thensatupinapassionateyearning,
Andgnashedherteethforbaulkeddesire,andwept
Asifherheartwouldbreak.
Dayafterday,nightafternight,
Laurakeptwatchinvain270
Insullensilenceofexceedingpain.
Shenevercaughtagainthegoblincry:
Comebuy,comebuy;
Sheneverspiedthegoblinmen
Hawkingtheirfruitsalongtheglen:
Butwhenthenoonwaxedbright
Herhairgrewthinandgrey;
Shedwindled,asthefairfullmoondothturn
Toswiftdecayandburn
Herfireaway.280
Onedayrememberingherkernelstone
Shesetitbyawallthatfacedthesouth;
Deweditwithtears,hopedforaroot,
Watchedforawaxingshoot,
Buttherecamenone;
Itneversawthesun,
Itneverfeltthetricklingmoisturerun:
Whilewithsunkeyesandfadedmouth
Shedreamedofmelons,asatravellersees
Falsewavesindesertdrouth290
Withshadeofleafcrownedtrees,
Andburnsthethirstierinthesandfulbreeze.
Shenomoresweptthehouse,
Tendedthefowlsorcows,
Fetchedhoney,kneadedcakesofwheat,
Broughtwaterfromthebrook:
Butsatdownlistlessinthechimneynook
Andwouldnoteat.
TenderLizziecouldnotbear
Towatchhersisterscankerouscare300
Yetnottoshare.
Shenightandmorning
Caughtthegoblinscry:
Comebuyourorchardfruits,
Comebuy,comebuy:
Besidethebrook,alongtheglen,
Sheheardthetrampofgoblinmen,
Thevoiceandstir
PoorLauracouldnothear;
Longedtobuyfruittocomforther,310
Butfearedtopaytoodear.
ShethoughtofJeanieinhergrave,
Whoshouldhavebeenabride;
Butwhoforjoysbrideshopetohave
Fellsickanddied
Inhergayprime,
InearliestWintertime
Withthefirstglazingrime,
WiththefirstsnowfallofcrispWintertime.
TillLauradwindling320
SeemedknockingatDeathsdoor:
ThenLizzieweighednomore
Betterandworse;
Butputasilverpennyinherpurse,
KissedLaura,crossedtheheathwithclumpsoffurze
Attwilight,haltedbythebrook:
Andforthefirsttimeinherlife
Begantolistenandlook.
Laughedeverygoblin
Whentheyspiedherpeeping:330
Cametowardsherhobbling,
Flying,running,leaping,
Puffingandblowing,
Chuckling,clapping,crowing,
Cluckingandgobbling,
Moppingandmowing,
Fullofairsandgraces,
Pullingwryfaces,
Demuregrimaces,
Catlikeandratlike,340
Ratelandwombatlike,
Snailpacedinahurry,
Parrotvoicedandwhistler,
Helterskelter,hurryskurry,
Chatteringlikemagpies,
Flutteringlikepigeons,
Glidinglikefishes,
Huggedherandkissedher:
Squeezedandcaressedher:
Stretcheduptheirdishes,350
Panniers,andplates:
Lookatourapples
Russetanddun,
Bobatourcherries,
Biteatourpeaches,
Citronsanddates,
Grapesfortheasking,
Pearsredwithbasking
Outinthesun,
Plumsontheirtwigs;360
Pluckthemandsuckthem,
Pomegranates,figs.
Goodfolk,saidLizzie,
MindfulofJeanie:
Givememuchandmany:
Heldoutherapron,
Tossedthemherpenny.
Nay,takeaseatwithus,
Honourandeatwithus,
Theyansweredgrinning:370
Ourfeastisbutbeginning.
Nightyetisearly,
Warmanddewpearly,
Wakefulandstarry:
Suchfruitsasthese
Nomancancarry;
Halftheirbloomwouldfly,
Halftheirdewwoulddry,
Halftheirflavourwouldpassby.
Sitdownandfeastwithus,380
Bewelcomeguestwithus,
Cheeryouandrestwithus.
Thankyou,saidLizzie:Butonewaits
Athomealoneforme:
Sowithoutfurtherparleying,
Ifyouwillnotsellmeany
Ofyourfruitsthoughmuchandmany,
Givemebackmysilverpenny
Itossedyouforafee.
Theybegantoscratchtheirpates,390
Nolongerwagging,purring,
Butvisiblydemurring,
Gruntingandsnarling.
Onecalledherproud,
Crossgrained,uncivil;
Theirtoneswaxedloud,
Theirlookswereevil.
Lashingtheirtails
Theytrodandhustledher,
Elbowedandjostledher,400
Clawedwiththeirnails,
Barking,mewing,hissing,mocking,
Torehergownandsoiledherstocking,
Twitchedherhairoutbytheroots,
Stampeduponhertenderfeet,
Heldherhandsandsqueezedtheirfruits
10
Againsthermouthtomakehereat.
WhiteandgoldenLizziestood,
Likealilyinaflood,
Likearockofblueveinedstone410
Lashedbytidesobstreperously,
Likeabeaconleftalone
Inahoaryroaringsea,
Sendingupagoldenfire,
Likeafruitcrownedorangetree
Whitewithblossomshoneysweet
Sorebesetbywaspandbee,
Likearoyalvirgintown
Toppedwithgildeddomeandspire
Closebeleagueredbyafleet420
Madtotugherstandarddown.
Onemayleadahorsetowater,
Twentycannotmakehimdrink.
Thoughthegoblinscuffedandcaughther,
Coaxedandfoughther,
Bulliedandbesoughther,
Scratchedher,pinchedherblackasink,
Kickedandknockedher,
Mauledandmockedher,
Lizzieutterednotaword;430
Wouldnotopenlipfromlip
Lesttheyshouldcramamouthfulin:
Butlaughedinhearttofeelthedrip
Ofjuicethatsyruppedallherface,
Andlodgedindimplesofherchin,
Andstreakedherneckwhichquakedlikecurd.
Atlasttheevilpeople,
Wornoutbyherresistance,
Flungbackherpenny,kickedtheirfruit
Alongwhicheverroadtheytook,440
Notleavingrootorstoneorshoot;
Somewrithedintotheground,
Somedivedintothebrook
Withringandripple,
Somescuddedonthegalewithoutasound,
Somevanishedinthedistance.
11
Inasmart,ache,tingle,
Lizziewentherway;
Knewnotwasitnightorday;
Sprangupthebank,torethrothefurze,450
Threadedcopseanddingle,
Andheardherpennyjingle
Bouncinginherpurse,
Itsbouncewasmusictoherear.
Sheranandran
Asifshefearedsomegoblinman
Doggedherwithgibeorcurse
Orsomethingworse:
Butnotonegoblinskurriedafter,
Norwassheprickedbyfear;460
Thekindheartmadeherwindypaced
Thaturgedherhomequiteoutofbreathwithhaste
Andinwardlaughter.
ShecriedLaura,upthegarden,
Didyoumissme?
Comeandkissme.
Nevermindmybruises,
Hugme,kissme,suckmyjuices
Squeezedfromgoblinfruitsforyou,
Goblinpulpandgoblindew.470
Eatme,drinkme,loveme;
Laura,makemuchofme:
ForyoursakeIhavebravedtheglen
Andhadtodowithgoblinmerchantmen.
Laurastartedfromherchair,
Flungherarmsupintheair,
Clutchedherhair:
Lizzie,Lizzie,haveyoutasted
Formysakethefruitforbidden?
Mustyourlightlikeminebehidden,480
Youryounglifelikeminebewasted,
Undoneinmineundoing,
Andruinedinmyruin,
Thirsty,cankered,goblinridden?
Sheclungabouthersister,
Kissedandkissedandkissedher:
Tearsonceagain
12
Refreshedhershrunkeneyes,
Droppinglikerain
Afterlongsultrydrouth;490
Shakingwithaguishfear,andpain,
Shekissedandkissedherwithahungrymouth.
Herlipsbegantoscorch,
Thatjuicewaswormwoodtohertongue,
Sheloathedthefeast:
Writhingasonepossessedsheleapedandsung,
Rentallherrobe,andwrung
Herhandsinlamentablehaste,
Andbeatherbreast.
Herlocksstreamedlikethetorch500
Bornebyaraceratfullspeed,
Orlikethemaneofhorsesintheirflight,
Orlikeaneaglewhenshestemsthelight
Straighttowardthesun,
Orlikeacagedthingfreed,
Orlikeaflyingflagwhenarmiesrun.
Swiftfirespreadthroughherveins,knockedatherheart,
Metthefiresmoulderingthere
Andoverboreitslesserflame;
Shegorgedonbitternesswithoutaname:510
Ah!fool,tochoosesuchpart
Ofsoulconsumingcare!
Sensefailedinthemortalstrife:
Likethewatchtowerofatown
Whichanearthquakeshattersdown,
Likealightningstrickenmast,
Likeawinduprootedtree
Spunabout,
Likeafoamtoppedwaterspout
Castdownheadlonginthesea,520
Shefellatlast;
Pleasurepastandanguishpast,
Isitdeathorisitlife?
Lifeoutofdeath.
ThatnightlongLizziewatchedbyher,
Countedherpulsesflaggingstir,
Feltforherbreath,
13
Heldwatertoherlips,andcooledherface
Withtearsandfanningleaves:
Butwhenthefirstbirdschirpedabouttheireaves,530
Andearlyreapersploddedtotheplace
Ofgoldensheaves,
Anddewwetgrass
Bowedinthemorningwindssobrisktopass,
Andnewbudswithnewday
Openedofcuplikeliliesonthestream,
Lauraawokeasfromadream,
Laughedintheinnocentoldway,
HuggedLizziebutnottwiceorthrice;
Hergleaminglocksshowednotonethreadofgrey,540
HerbreathwassweetasMay
Andlightdancedinhereyes.
Days,weeks,months,years
Afterwards,whenbothwerewives
Withchildrenoftheirown;
Theirmotherheartsbesetwithfears,
Theirlivesboundupintenderlives;
Laurawouldcallthelittleones
Andtellthemofherearlyprime,
Thosepleasantdayslonggone550
Ofnotreturningtime:
Wouldtalkaboutthehauntedglen,
Thewicked,quaintfruitmerchantmen,
Theirfruitslikehoneytothethroat
Butpoisonintheblood;
(Mensellnotsuchinanytown:)
Wouldtellthemhowhersisterstood
Indeadlyperiltodohergood,
Andwinthefieryantidote:
Thenjoininghandstolittlehands560
Wouldbidthemclingtogether,
Forthereisnofriendlikeasister
Incalmorstormyweather;
Tocheeroneonthetediousway,
Tofetchoneifonegoesastray,
Toliftoneifonetottersdown,
Tostrengthenwhilstonestands.
14
INTHEROUNDTOWERATJHANSI
June8,1857
Ahundred,athousandtoone;evenso;
Notahopeintheworldremained:
Theswarminghowlingwretchesbelow
Gainedandgainedandgained.
Skenelookedathispaleyoungwife:
Isthetimecome?Thetimeiscome!
Young,strong,andsofulloflife:
Theagonystruckthemdumb.
Closehisarmabouthernow,
Closehercheektohis,10
Closethepistoltoherbrow
Godforgivethemthis!
Willithurtmuch?No,mineown:
IwishIcouldbearthepangforboth.
IwishIcouldbearthepangalone:
Courage,dear,Iamnotloth.
Kissandkiss:Itisnotpain
Thustokissanddie.
Onekissmore.Andyetoneagain.
Goodbye.Goodbye.20
DREAMLAND
Wheresunlessriversweep
Theirwavesintothedeep,
Shesleepsacharmedsleep:
Awakehernot.
Ledbyasinglestar,
Shecamefromveryfar
Toseekwhereshadowsare
15
Herpleasantlot.
Shelefttherosymorn,
Sheleftthefieldsofcorn,10
Fortwilightcoldandlorn
Andwatersprings.
Throughsleep,asthroughaveil,
Sheseestheskylookpale,
Andhearsthenightingale
Thatsadlysings.
Rest,rest,aperfectrest
Shedoverbrowandbreast;
Herfaceistowardthewest,
Thepurpleland.20
Shecannotseethegrain
Ripeningonhillandplain;
Shecannotfeeltherain
Uponherhand.
Rest,rest,forevermore
Uponamossyshore;
Rest,restattheheartscore
Tilltimeshallcease:
Sleepthatnopainshallwake;
Nightthatnomornshallbreak30
Tilljoyshallovertake
Herperfectpeace.
ATHOME
WhenIwasdead,myspiritturned
Toseekthemuchfrequentedhouse:
Ipassedthedoor,andsawmyfriends
Feastingbeneathgreenorangeboughs;
Fromhandtohandtheypushedthewine,
Theysuckedthepulpofplumandpeach;
Theysang,theyjested,andtheylaughed,
Foreachwaslovedofeach.
16
Ilistenedtotheirhonestchat:
Saidone:Tomorrowweshallbe10
Plodplodalongthefeaturelesssands,
Andcoastingmilesandmilesofsea.
Saidone:Beforetheturnoftide
Wewillachievetheeyrieseat.
Saidone:Tomorrowshallbelike
Today,butmuchmoresweet.
Tomorrow,saidthey,strongwithhope,
Anddweltuponthepleasantway:
Tomorrow,criedthey,oneandall,
Whilenoonespokeofyesterday.20
Theirlifestoodfullatblessednoon;
I,onlyI,hadpassedaway:
Tomorrowandtoday,theycried;
Iwasofyesterday.
Ishiveredcomfortless,butcast
Nochillacrossthetablecloth;
I,allforgotten,shivered,sad
Tostay,andyettoparthowloth:
Ipassedfromthefamiliarroom,
Iwhofromlovehadpassedaway,30
Liketheremembranceofaguest
Thattarriethbutaday.
ATRIAD
Sonnet
Threesangoflovetogether:onewithlips
Crimson,withcheeksandbosominaglow,
Flushedtotheyellowhairandfingertips;
Andonetheresangwhosoftandsmoothassnow
Bloomedlikeatintedhyacinthatashow;
Andonewasbluewithfamineafterlove,
Wholikeaharpstringsnappedrangharshandlow
Theburdenofwhatthoseweresingingof.
17
Oneshamedherselfinlove;onetemperately
Grewgrossinsoullesslove,asluggishwife;
Onefamisheddiedforlove.Thustwoofthree
Tookdeathforloveandwonhimafterstrife;
Onedronedinsweetnesslikeafattenedbee:
Allonthethreshold,yetallshortoflife.
LOVEFROMTHENORTH
Ihadaloveinsoftsouthland,
BelovedthroughAprilfarinMay;
Hewaitedonmylightestbreath,
Andneverdaredtosaymenay.
Hesaddenedifmycheerwassad,
ButgayhegrewifIwasgay;
Weneverdifferedonahair,
Myyeshisyes,mynayhisnay.
Theweddinghourwascome,theaisles
Wereflushedwithsunandflowersthatday;10
Ipacingbalancedinmythoughts:
Itsquitetoolatetothinkofnay.
Mybridegroomansweredinhisturn,
Myselfhadalmostansweredyea:
WhenthroughtheflashingnaveIheard
Astruggleandresoundingnay.
Bridemaidsandbridegroomshrankinfear,
ButIstoodhighwhostoodatbay:
AndifIansweryea,fairSir,
Whatmanartthoutobarwithnay?20
Hewasastrongmanfromthenorth,
Lightlocked,witheyesofdangerousgrey:
Putyeabyforanothertime
InwhichIwillnotsaytheenay.
18
Hetookmeinhisstrongwhitearms,
Heboremeonhishorseaway
Oercrag,morass,andhairbreadthpass,
Butneveraskedmeyeaornay.
Hemademefastwithbookandbell,
Withlinksoflovehemakesmestay;30
TillnowIveneitherheartnorpower
Norwillnorwishtosayhimnay.
WINTERRAIN
Everyvalleydrinks,
Everydellandhollow:
Wherethekindrainsinksandsinks,
GreenofSpringwillfollow.
Yetalapseofweeks
Budswillbursttheiredges,
Striptheirwoolcoats,gluecoats,streaks,
Inthewoodsandhedges;
Weaveaboweroflove
Forbirdstomeeteachother,10
Weaveacanopyabove
Nestandeggandmother.
Butforfatteningrain
Weshouldhavenoflowers,
Neverabudorleafagain
Butforsoakingshowers;
Neveramatedbird
Intherockingtreetops,
Neverindeedaflockorherd
Tograzeupontheleacrops.20
Lambssowoollywhite,
Sheepthesunbrightleason,
19
Theycouldhavenograsstobite
Butforraininseason.
Weshouldfindnomoss
Intheshadiestplaces,
Findnowavingmeadowgrass
Piedwithbroadeyeddaisies:
Butmilesofbarrensand,
Withneverasonordaughter,30
Notalilyontheland,
Orlilyonthewater.
COUSINKATE
Iwasacottagemaiden
Hardenedbysunandair,
Contentedwithmycottagemates,
NotmindfulIwasfair.
Whydidagreatlordfindmeout,
Andpraisemyflaxenhair?
Whydidagreatlordfindmeout
Tofillmyheartwithcare?
Heluredmetohispalacehome
Woesmeforjoythereof10
Toleadashamelessshamefullife,
Hisplaythingandhislove.
Heworemelikeasilkenknot,
Hechangedmelikeaglove;
SonowImoan,anuncleanthing,
Whomighthavebeenadove.
OLadyKate,mycousinKate,
YougrewmorefairthanI:
Hesawyouatyourfathersgate,
Choseyou,andcastmeby.20
Hewatchedyourstepsalongthelane,
Yourworkamongtherye;
20
Heliftedyoufrommeanestate
Tositwithhimonhigh.
Becauseyouweresogoodandpure
Heboundyouwithhisring:
Theneighbourscallyougoodandpure,
Callmeanoutcastthing.
EvensoIsitandhowlindust,
Yousitingoldandsing:30
Nowwhichofushastendererheart?
Youhadthestrongerwing.
OcousinKate,mylovewastrue,
Yourlovewaswritinsand:
Ifhehadfoolednotmebutyou,
IfyoustoodwhereIstand,
Hednothavewonmewithhislove
Norboughtmewithhisland;
Iwouldhavespitintohisface
Andnothavetakenhishand.40
YetIveagiftyouhavenotgot,
Andseemnotliketoget:
Forallyourclothesandweddingring
Ivelittledoubtyoufret.
Myfairhairedson,myshame,mypride,
Clingcloser,closeryet:
Yourfatherwouldgivelandsforone
Towearhiscoronet.
NOBLESISTERS
Nowdidyoumarkafalcon,
Sisterdear,sisterdear,
Flyingtowardmywindow
Inthemorningcoolandclear?
Withjinglingbellsaboutherneck,
Butwhatbeneathherwing?
Itmayhavebeenaribbon,
21
Oritmayhavebeenaring.
Imarkedafalconswooping
Atthebreakofday;10
Andforyourlove,mysisterdove,
Ifrayedthethiefaway.
Ordidyouspyaruddyhound,
Sisterfairandtall,
Wentsnuffingroundmygardenbound,
Orcrouchedbymybowerwall?
Withasilkenleashabouthisneck;
Butinhismouthmaybe
Achainofgoldandsilverlinks,
Oraletterwrittome.20
Iheardahound,highbornsister,
Stoodbayingatthemoon;
Iroseanddrovehimfromyourwall
Lestyoushouldwaketoosoon.
Ordidyoumeetaprettypage
Satswingingonthegate;
Satwhistlingwhistlinglikeabird,
Ormaybeslepttoolate;
Witheagletsbroideredonhiscap,
Andeagletsonhisglove?30
Ifyouhadturnedhispocketsout,
Youhadfoundsomepledgeoflove.
Imethimatthisdaybreak,
Scarcetheeastwasred:
Lestthecreakinggateshouldangeryou,
Ipackedhimhometobed.
Ohpatience,sister.Didyousee
Ayoungmantallandstrong,
Swiftfootedtoupholdtheright
Andtouprootthewrong,40
Comehomeacrossthedesolatesea
Towoomeforhiswife?
Andinhisheartmyheartislocked,
Andinhislifemylife.
Imetanamelessman,sister,
Hardbyyourchamberdoor:
Isaid:Herhusbandloveshermuch.
22
Andyetsheloveshimmore.
Fie,sister,fie,awickedlie,
Alie,awickedlie,50
Ihavenoneotherlovebuthim,
NorwillhavetillIdie.
Andyouhaveturnedhimfromourdoor,
Andstabbedhimwithalie:
Iwillgoseekhimthrotheworld
InsorrowtillIdie.
Goseekinsorrow,sister,
Andfindinsorrowtoo:
Ifthusyoushameourfathersname
Mycursegoforthwithyou.60
SPRING
Frostlockedallthewinter,
Seeds,androots,andstonesoffruits,
Whatshallmaketheirsapascend
Thattheymayputforthshoots?
Tipsoftendergreen,
Leaf,orblade,orsheath;
Tellingofthehiddenlife
Thatbreaksforthunderneath,
LifenursedinitsgravebyDeath.
Blowsthethawwindpleasantly,10
Dripsthesoakingrain,
Byfitslooksdownthewakingsun:
Younggrassspringsontheplain;
Youngleavesclotheearlyhedgerowtrees;
Seeds,androots,andstonesoffruits,
Swollenwithsapputforththeirshoots;
Curledheadedfernssproutinthelane;
Birdssingandpairagain.
ThereisnotimelikeSpring,
Whenlifesaliveineverything,20
23
Beforenewnestlingssing,
Beforecleftswallowsspeedtheirjourneyback
Alongthetracklesstrack
Godguidestheirwing,
Hespreadstheirtablethattheynothinglack,
Beforethedaisygrowsacommonflower,
Beforethesunhaspower
Toscorchtheworldupinhisnoontidehour.
ThereisnotimelikeSpring,
LikeSpringthatpassesby;30
ThereisnolifelikeSpringlifeborntodie,
Piercingthesod,
Clothingtheuncouthclod,
Hatchedinthenest,
Fledgedonthewindybough,
Strongonthewing:
ThereisnotimelikeSpringthatpassesby,
Nownewlyborn,andnow
Hasteningtodie.
THELAMBSOFGRASMERE,1860
Theuplandflocksgrewstarvedandthinned:
Theirshepherdsscarcecouldfeedthelambs
Whosemilklessmothersbuttedthem,
Orwhowereorphanedoftheirdams.
Thelambsathirstformothersmilk
Filledalltheplacewithpiteoussounds:
Theirmothersbonesmadewhiteformiles
Thepasturelesswetpasturegrounds.
Dayafterday,nightafternight,
Fromlambtolambtheshepherdswent,10
Withteapotsforthebleatingmouths
Insteadofnaturesnourishment.
Thelittleshiveringgapingthings
Soonknewthestepthatbroughtthemaid,
Andfondledtheprotectinghand,
24
Andrubbeditwithawoollyhead.
Then,asthedayswaxedontoweeks,
Itwasaprettysighttosee
Theselambswithfriskyheadsandtails
Skippingandleapingonthelea,20
Bleatingintender,trustfultones,
Restingonrockycragormound.
Andfollowingthebelovedfeet
Thatoncehadsoughtforthemandfound.
Theseveryshepherdsoftheirflocks,
Theselovinglambssomeektoplease,
Areworthyofrecordingwords
Andhonourintheirduedegrees:
SoImightliveahundredyears,
Androamfromstrandtoforeignstrand,30
Yetnotforgetthisfloodedspring
AndscarcesavedlambsofWestmoreland.
ABIRTHDAY
Myheartislikeasingingbird
Whosenestisinawateredshoot;
Myheartislikeanappletree
Whoseboughsarebentwiththicksetfruit;
Myheartislikearainbowshell
Thatpaddlesinahalcyonsea;
Myheartisgladderthanallthese
Becausemyloveiscometome.
Raisemeadaisofsilkanddown;
Hangitwithvairandpurpledyes;10
Carveitindoves,andpomegranates,
Andpeacockswithahundredeyes;
Workitingoldandsilvergrapes,
Inleaves,andsilverfleursdelys;
Becausethebirthdayofmylife
Iscome,myloveiscometome.
25
REMEMBER
Sonnet
RemembermewhenIamgoneaway,
Gonefarawayintothesilentland;
Whenyoucannomoreholdmebythehand,
NorIhalfturntogoyetturningstay.
Remembermewhennomoredaybyday
Youtellmeofourfuturethatyouplanned:
Onlyrememberme;youunderstand
Itwillbelatetocounselthenorpray.
Yetifyoushouldforgetmeforawhile
Andafterwardsremember,donotgrieve:
Forifthedarknessandcorruptionleave
AvestigeofthethoughtsthatonceIhad,
Betterbyfaryoushouldforgetandsmile
Thanthatyoushouldrememberandbesad.
AFTERDEATH
Sonnet
Thecurtainswerehalfdrawn,thefloorwasswept
Andstrewnwithrushes,rosemaryandmay
LaythickuponthebedonwhichIlay,
Wherethroughthelatticeivyshadowscrept.
Heleanedaboveme,thinkingthatIslept
Andcouldnothearhim;butIheardhimsay:
Poorchild,poorchild:andasheturnedaway
Cameadeepsilence,andIknewhewept.
Hedidnottouchtheshroud,orraisethefold
Thathidmyface,ortakemyhandinhis,
Orrufflethesmoothpillowsformyhead:
Hedidnotlovemeliving;butoncedead
Hepitiedme;andverysweetitis
ToknowhestilliswarmthoughIamcold.
26
ANEND
Love,strongasDeath,isdead.
Come,letusmakehisbed
Amongthedyingflowers:
Agreenturfathishead;
Andastoneathisfeet,
Whereonwemaysit
Inthequieteveninghours.
HewasbornintheSpring,
Anddiedbeforetheharvesting:
Onthelastwarmsummerday10
Heleftus;hewouldnotstay
ForAutumntwilightcoldandgrey.
Sitwebyhisgrave,andsing
Heisgoneaway.
Tofewchordsandsadandlow
Singweso:
Beoureyesfixedonthegrass
Shadowveiledastheyearspass
Whilewethinkofallthatwas
Inthelongago.20
MYDREAM
HearnowacuriousdreamIdreamedlastnight
Eachwordwhereofisweighedandsiftedtruth.
IstoodbesideEuphrateswhileitswelled
LikeoverflowingJordaninitsyouth:
Itwaxedandcolouredsensiblytosight;
Tilloutofmyriadpregnantwavestherewelled
Youngcrocodiles,agauntbluntfeaturedcrew,
Freshhatchedperhapsanddaubedwithbirthdaydew.
TherestifIshouldtell,Ifearmyfriend
Myclosestfriendwoulddeemthefactsuntrue;10
27
Andthereforeitwerewiselyleftuntold;
Yetifyouwill,why,hearittotheend.
Eachcrocodilewasgirtwithmassivegold
Andpolishedstonesthatwiththeirwearersgrew:
Butonetherewaswhowaxedbeyondtherest,
Worekingliergirdleandakinglycrown,
Whilstcrownsandorbsandsceptresstarredhisbreast.
Allgleamedcompactandgreenwithscaleonscale,
Butspecialburnishmentadornedhismail
Andspecialterrorweigheduponhisfrown;20
Hispunierbrethrenquakedbeforehistail,
Broadasarafter,potentasaflail.
Sohegrewlordandmasterofhiskin:
Butwhoshalltellthetaleofalltheirwoes?
Anexecrableappetitearose,
Hebattenedonthem,crunched,andsuckedthemin.
Heknewnolaw,hefearednobindinglaw,
Butgroundthemwithinexorablejaw:
Thelusciousfatdistilleduponhischin,
Exudedfromhisnostrilsandhiseyes,30
Whilestilllikehungrydeathhefedhismaw;
Tilleveryminorcrocodilebeingdead
Andburiedtoo,himselfgorgedtothefull,
Hesleptwithbreathoppressedandunstrungclaw.
OhmarvelpassingstrangewhichnextIsaw:
Insleephedwindledtothecommonsize,
Andalltheempirefadedfromhiscoat.
Thenfromfaroffawingedvesselcame,
Swiftasaswallow,subtleasaflame:
Iknownotwhatitboreoffreightorhost,40
Butwhiteitwasasanavengingghost.
ItlevelledstrongEuphratesinitscourse;
Supremeyetweightlessasanidlemote
Itseemedtotamethewaterswithoutforce
Tillnotamurmurswelledorbillowbeat:
Lo,asthepurpleshadowsweptthesands,
Theprudentcrocodileroseonhisfeet
Andshedappropriatetearsandwrunghishands.
Whatcanitmean?youask.Ianswernot
Formeaning,butmyselfmustecho,What?50
AndtellitasIsawitonthespot.
28
SONG
Ohrosesfortheflushofyouth,
Andlaurelfortheperfectprime;
Butpluckanivybranchforme
Grownoldbeforemytime.
Ohvioletsforthegraveofyouth,
Andbayforthosedeadintheirprime;
GivemethewitheredleavesIchose
Beforeintheoldtime.
THEHOURANDTHEGHOST
BRIDE
Olove,love,holdmefast,
Hedrawsmeawayfromthee;
Icannotstemtheblast,
Northecoldstrongsea:
Farawayalightshines
Beyondthehillsandpines;
Itislitforme.
BRIDEGROOM
Ihavetheeclose,mydear,
Noterrorcancomenear;
Onlyfaroffthenorthernlightshinesclear.10
GHOST
Comewithme,fairandfalse,
Toourhome,comehome.
Itismyvoicethatcalls:
Oncethouwastnotafraid
WhenIwood,andsaid,
Come,ournestisnewlymade
Nowcrossthetossingfoam.
29
BRIDE
Holdmeonemomentlonger,
Hetauntsmewiththepast,
Hisclutchiswaxingstronger,20
Holdmefast,holdmefast.
Hedrawsmefromthyheart,
AndIcannotwithhold:
Hebidsmyspiritdepart
Withhimintothecold:
Ohbittervowsofold!
BRIDEGROOM
Leanonme,hidethineeyes:
Onlyourselves,earthandskies,
Arepresenthere:bewise.
GHOST
Leanonme,comeaway,30
Iwillguideandsteady:
Come,forIwillnotstay:
Come,forhouseandbedareready.
Ah,surebedandhouse,
Forbetterandworse,forlifeanddeath:
Goalwonwithshortenedbreath:
Come,crownourvows.
BRIDE
Onemoment,onemoreword,
Whilemyheartbeatsstill,
Whilemybreathisstirred40
Bymyfaintingwill.
Ofriendforsakemenot,
ForgetnotasIforgot:
Butkeepthyheartforme,
Keepthyfaithtrueandbright;
Throughthelonecoldwinternight
PerhapsImaycometothee.
BRIDEGROOM
30
Naypeace,mydarling,peace:
Letthesedreamsandterrorscease:
Whospokeofdeathorchangeoraughtbutease?50
GHOST
Ofairfrailsin,
Opoorharvestgatheredin!
Thoushaltvisithimagain
Towatchhisheartgrowcold;
Toknowthegnawingpain
Iknewofold;
Toseeonemuchmorefair
Fillupthevacantchair,
Fillhisheart,hischildrenbear:
WhilethouandItogether60
Intheoutcastweather
Tossandhowlandspin.
ASUMMERWISH
Liveallthysweetlifethro,
SweetRose,dewsprent,
Dropdownthineeveningdew
Togatheritanew
Whendayisbright:
Ifancythouwastmeant
Chieflytogivedelight.
Singinthesilentsky,
Gladsoaringbird;
Singoutthynotesonhigh10
Tosunbeamstrayingby
Orpassingcloud;
Heedlessifthouartheard
Singthyfullsongaloud.
Ohthatitwerewithme
Aswiththeflower;
31
Bloomingonitsowntree
Forbutterflyandbee
Itssummermorns:
ThatImightbloomminehour20
Aroseinspiteofthorns.
Ohthatmyworkweredone
Asbirdsthatsoar
Rejoicinginthesun:
Thatwhenmytimeisrun
Anddaylighttoo,
Isomightrestoncemore
Coolwithrefreshingdew.
ANAPPLEGATHERING
Ipluckedpinkblossomsfrommineappletree
Andworethemallthateveninginmyhair:
ThenindueseasonwhenIwenttosee
Ifoundnoapplesthere.
Withdanglingbasketallalongthegrass
AsIhadcomeIwenttheselfsametrack:
Myneighboursmockedmewhiletheysawmepass
Soemptyhandedback.
LilianandLiliassmiledintrudgingby,
Theirheapedupbasketteasedmelikeajeer;10
Sweetvoicedtheysangbeneaththesunsetsky,
Theirmothershomewasnear.
PlumpGertrudepassedmewithherbasketfull,
Astrongerhandthanhershelpeditalong;
Avoicetalkedwithherthroughtheshadowscool
Moresweettomethansong.
AhWillie,Willie,wasmylovelessworth
Thanappleswiththeirgreenleavespiledabove?
Icountedrosiestapplesontheearth
32
Offarlessworththanlove.20
Soonceitwaswithmeyoustoopedtotalk
Laughingandlisteninginthisverylane:
Tothinkthatbythiswayweusedtowalk
Weshallnotwalkagain!
Iletmyneighbourspassme,onesandtwos
Andgroups;thelatestsaidthenightgrewchill,
Andhastened:butIloitered,whilethedews
FellfastIloiteredstill.
SONG
Twodovesupontheselfsamebranch,
Twoliliesonasinglestem,
Twobutterfliesupononeflower:
Ohhappytheywholookonthem.
Wholookuponthemhandinhand
Flushedintherosysummerlight;
Wholookuponthemhandinhand
Andnevergiveathoughttonight.
MAUDECLARE
Outofthechurchshefollowedthem
Withaloftystepandmien:
Hisbridewaslikeavillagemaid,
MaudeClarewaslikeaqueen.
SonThomas,hisladymothersaid,
Withsmiles,almostwithtears:
MayNellandyoubutliveastrue
Aswehavedoneforyears;
33
Yourfatherthirtyyearsago
Hadjustyourtaletotell;10
Buthewasnotsopaleasyou,
NorIsopaleasNell.
Mylordwaspalewithinwardstrife,
AndNellwaspalewithpride;
MylordgazedlongonpaleMaudeClare
Oreverhekissedthebride.
Lo,Ihavebroughtmygift,mylord,
Havebroughtmygift,shesaid:
Toblessthehearth,toblesstheboard,
Toblessthemarriagebed.20
Heresmyhalfofthegoldenchain
Youworeaboutyourneck,
Thatdaywewadedankledeep
Forliliesinthebeck:
Heresmyhalfofthefadedleaves
Wepluckedfrombuddingbough,
Withfeetamongstthelilyleaves,
Theliliesarebuddingnow.
Hestrovetomatchherscornwithscorn,
Hefalteredinhisplace:30
Lady,hesaid,MaudeClare,hesaid,
MaudeClare:andhidhisface.
SheturndtoNell:MyLadyNell,
Ihaveagiftforyou;
Though,wereitfruit,thebloomweregone,
Or,wereitflowers,thedew.
Takemyshareofafickleheart,
Mineofapaltrylove:
Takeitorleaveitasyouwill,
Iwashmyhandsthereof.40
Andwhatyouleave,saidNell,Illtake,
Andwhatyouspurn,Illwear;
Forhesmylordforbetterandworse,
34
AndhimIlove,MaudeClare.
Yea,thoughyouretallerbythehead,
Morewise,andmuchmorefair;
Illlovehimtillhelovesmebest,
Mebestofall,MaudeClare.
ECHO
Cometomeinthesilenceofthenight;
Comeinthespeakingsilenceofadream;
Comewithsoftroundedcheeksandeyesasbright
Assunlightonastream;
Comebackintears,
Omemory,hope,loveoffinishedyears.
Ohdreamhowsweet,toosweet,toobittersweet,
WhosewakeningshouldhavebeeninParadise,
Wheresoulsbrimfullofloveabideandmeet;
Wherethirstinglongingeyes10
Watchtheslowdoor
Thatopening,lettingin,letsoutnomore.
Yetcometomeindreams,thatImaylive
Myverylifeagainthoughcoldindeath:
Comebacktomeindreams,thatImaygive
Pulseforpulse,breathforbreath:
Speaklow,leanlow,
Aslongago,mylove,howlongago!
MYSECRET
Itellmysecret?Noindeed,notI:
Perhapssomeday,whoknows?
Butnottoday;itfroze,andblows,andsnows,
35
Andyouretoocurious:fie!
Youwanttohearit?well:
Only,mysecretsmine,andIwonttell.
Or,afterall,perhapstheresnone:
Supposethereisnosecretafterall,
Butonlyjustmyfun.
Todaysanippingday,abitingday;10
Inwhichonewantsashawl,
Aveil,acloak,andotherwraps:
Icannotopetoeveryonewhotaps,
Andletthedraughtscomewhistlingthroughmyhall;
Comeboundingandsurroundingme,
Comebuffeting,astoundingme,
Nippingandclippingthroughmywrapsandall.
Iwearmymaskforwarmth:whoevershows
HisnosetoRussiansnows
Tobepeckedatbyeverywindthatblows?20
Youwouldnotpeck?Ithankyouforgoodwill,
Believe,butleavethattruthuntestedstill.
Springsanexpansivetime:yetIdonttrust
Marchwithitspeckofdust,
NorAprilwithitsrainbowcrownedbriefshowers,
NorevenMay,whoseflowers
Onefrostmaywitherthroughthesunlesshours.
Perhapssomelanguidsummerday,
Whendrowsybirdssinglessandless,
Andgoldenfruitisripeningtoexcess,30
Iftheresnottoomuchsunnortoomuchcloud,
Andthewarmwindisneitherstillnorloud,
PerhapsmysecretImaysay,
Oryoumayguess.
ANOTHERSPRING
IfImightseeanotherSpring
Idnotplantsummerflowersandwait:
36
Idhavemycrocusesatonce,
Myleaflesspinkmezereons,
Mychillveinedsnowdrops,choiceryet
Mywhiteorazureviolet,
Leafnestedprimrose;anything
Toblowatonce,notlate.
Idlistentothedaylightbirds10
Thatbuildtheirnestsandpairandsing,
Norwaitformatelessnightingale;
Idlistentothelustyherds,
Theeweswithlambsaswhiteassnow,
Idfindoutmusicinthehail
Andallthewindsthatblow.
Ohstingingcommentonmypast
Thatallmypastresultsinif
IfImightseeanotherSpring20
Idlaughtoday,todayisbrief;
Iwouldnotwaitforanything:
Idusetodaythatcannotlast,
Begladtodayandsing.
APEALOFBELLS
Strikethebellswantonly,
Tinkletinklewell;
Bringmewine,bringmeflowers,
Ringthesilverbell.
Allmylampsburnscentedoil,
Hungonladenorangetrees,
Whoseshadowedfoliageisthefoil
Togoldenlampsandoranges.
Heapmygoldenplateswithfruit,
Goldenfruit,freshpluckedandripe;10
Strikethebellsandbreathethepipe;
Shutoutshowersfromsummerhours
37
Silencethatcomplaininglute
Shutoutthinking,shutoutpain,
Fromhoursthatcannotcomeagain.
Strikethebellssolemnly,
Dingdongdeep:
Myfriendispassingtohisbed,
Fastasleep;
Theresplaitedlinenroundhishead,20
Whileforemostgohisfeet
Hisfeetthatcannotcarryhim.
Myfeastsashow,mylightsaredim;
Bestill,yourmusicisnotsweet,
Thereisnomusicmoreforhim:
Hislightsareout,hisfeastisdone;
Hisbowlthatsparkledtothebrim
Isdrained,isbroken,cannothold;
Mybloodischill,hisbloodiscold;
Hisdeathisfull,andminebegun.30
FATAMORGANA
Ablueeyedphantomfarbefore
Islaughing,leapingtowardthesun:
LikeleadIchaseitevermore,
Ipantandrun.
Itbreaksthesunlightboundonbound:
Goessingingasitleapsalong
Tosheepbellswithadreamysound
Adreamysong.
Ilaugh,itissobriskandgay;
Itissofarbefore,Iweep:10
IhopeIshallliedownsomeday,
Liedownandsleep.
38
NO,THANKYOU,JOHN
IneversaidIlovedyou,John:
Whywillyouteasemedaybyday,
Andwaxawearinesstothinkupon
Withalwaysdoandpray?
YouknowIneverlovedyou,John;
Nofaultofminemademeyourtoast:
Whywillyouhauntmewithafaceaswan
Asshowsanhouroldghost?
IdaresayMegorMollwouldtake
Pityuponyou,ifyoudask:10
Andpraydontremainsingleformysake
Whocantperformthattask.
Ihavenoheart?PerhapsIhavenot;
Butthenyouremadtotakeoffence
ThatIdontgiveyouwhatIhavenotgot:
Useyourowncommonsense.
Letbygonesbebygones:
Dontcallmefalse,whoowednottobetrue:
IdratheranswerNotofiftyJohns
ThananswerYestoyou.20
Letsmarourpleasantdaysnomore,
Songbirdsofpassage,daysofyouth:
Catchattoday,forgetthedaysbefore:
Illwinkatyouruntruth.
Letusstrikehandsasheartyfriends;
Nomore,noless;andfriendshipsgood:
Onlydontkeepinviewulteriorends,
Andpointsnotunderstood
Inopentreaty.Riseabove
Quibblesandshufflingoffandon:30
Heresfriendshipforyouifyoulike;butlove,
No,thankyou,John.
39
MAY
Icannottellyouhowitwas;
ButthisIknow:itcametopass
Uponabrightandbreezyday
WhenMaywasyoung;ah,pleasantMay!
Asyetthepoppieswerenotborn
Betweenthebladesoftendercorn;
Thelasteggshadnothatchedasyet,
Noranybirdforgoneitsmate.
Icannottellyouwhatitwas;
ButthisIknow:itdidbutpass.10
ItpassedawaywithsunnyMay,
Withallsweetthingsitpassedaway,
Andleftmeold,andcold,andgrey.
APAUSEOFTHOUGHT
Ilookedforthatwhichisnot,norcanbe,
Andhopedeferredmademyheartsickintruth:
Butyearsmustpassbeforeahopeofyouth
Isresignedutterly.
Iwatchedandwaitedwithasteadfastwill:
Andthoughtheobjectseemedtofleeaway
ThatIsolongedfor,everdaybyday
Iwatchedandwaitedstill.
SometimesIsaid:Thisthingshallbenomore;
Myexpectationweariesandshallcease;10
Iwillresignitnowandbeatpeace:
Yetnevergaveitoer.
SometimesIsaid:Itisanemptyname
Ilongfor;toanamewhyshouldIgive
ThepeaceofallthedaysIhavetolive?
Yetgaveitallthesame.
40
Alas,thoufoolishone!alikeunfit
Forhealthyjoyandsalutarypain:
Thouknowestthechaseuseless,andagain
Turnesttofollowit.20
TWILIGHTCALM
Oh,pleasanteventide!
Cloudsonthewesternside
Growgreyandgreyerhidingthewarmsun:
Thebeesandbirds,theirhappylaboursdone,
Seektheirclosenestsandbide.
Screenedintheleafywood
Thestockdovessitandbrood:
Theverysquirrelleapsfromboughtobough
Butlazily;pauses;andsettlesnow
Whereoncehestoredhisfood.10
Onebyonetheflowersclose,
Lilyanddewyrose
Shuttingtheirtenderpetalsfromthemoon:
Thegrasshoppersarestill;butnotsosoon
Arestillthenoisycrows.
Thedormousesquatsandeats
Choicelittledaintybits
Beneaththespreadingrootsofabroadlime;
Nibblinghisfillhestopsfromtimetotime
Andlistenswherehesits.20
Fromfarthelowingscome
Ofcattledrivenhome:
Fromfartherstillthewindbringsfitfully
Thevastcontinualmurmurofthesea,
Nowloud,nowalmostdumb.
Thegnatswhirlintheair,
Theeveninggnats;andthere
41
Theowlopesbroadhiseyesandwingstosail
Forprey;thebatwakes;andtheshelllesssnail
Comesforth,clammyandbare.30
Hark!thatsthenightingale,
Tellingtheselfsametale
Hersongtoldwhenthisancientearthwasyoung:
Soechoesansweredwhenhersongwassung
Inthefirstwoodedvale.
Wecallitloveandpain
Thepassionofherstrain;
Andyetwelittleunderstandorknow:
Whyshoulditnotberatherjoythatso
Throbsineachthrobbingvein?40
Inseparateherdsthedeer
Lie;herethebucks,andhere
Thedoes,andbyitsmothersleepsthefawn:
Throughallthehoursofnightuntilthedawn
Theysleep,forgettingfear.
Theharesleepswhereitlies,
Withwaryhalfclosedeyes;
Thecockhasceasedtocrow,thehentocluck:
Onlythefoxisout,someheedlessduck
Orchickentosurprise.50
Remote,eachsinglestar
Comesout,tilltheretheyare
Allshiningbrightly:howthedewsfalldamp!
Whilecloseathandtheglowwormlightsherlamp
Ortwinklesfromafar.
Buteveningnowisdone
Asmuchasifthesun
DaygivinghadarisenintheEast:
Fornighthascome;andthegreatcalmhasceased,
Thequietsandshaverun.60
42
WIFETOHUSBAND
Pardonthefaultsinme,
Fortheloveofyearsago:
Goodbye.
Imustdriftacrossthesea,
Imustsinkintothesnow,
Imustdie.
Youcanbaskinthissun,
Youcandrinkwine,andeat:
Goodbye.
Imustgirdmyselfandrun,10
Thoughwithunreadyfeet:
Imustdie.
Blankseatosailupon,
Coldbedtosleepin:
Goodbye.
Whileyouclasp,Imustbegone
Forallyourweeping:
Imustdie.
Akissforonefriend,
Andawordfortwo,20
Goodbye:
Alockthatyoumustsend,
Akindnessyoumustdo:
Imustdie.
Notawordforyou,
Notalockorkiss,
Goodbye.
We,one,mustpartintwo;
Verilydeathisthis:
Imustdie.30
43
THREESEASONS
Acupforhope!shesaid,
Inspringtimeerethebloomwasold:
Thecrimsonwinewaspoorandcold
Byhermouthsricherred.
Acupforlove!howlow,
Howsoftthewords;andallthewhile
Herblushwasripplingwithasmile
Likesummeraftersnow.
Acupformemory!
Coldcupthatonemustdrainalone:10
Whileautumnwindsareupandmoan
Acrossthebarrensea.
Hope,memory,love:
Hopeforfairmorn,andloveforday,
Andmemoryfortheeveninggrey
Andsolitarydove.
MIRAGE
ThehopeIdreamedofwasadream,
Wasbutadream;andnowIwake,
Exceedingcomfortless,andworn,andold,
Foradreamssake.
Ihangmyharpuponatree,
Aweepingwillowinalake;
Ihangmysilentharpthere,wrungandsnapt
Foradreamssake.
Liestill,liestill,mybreakingheart;
Mysilentheart,liestillandbreak:10
Life,andtheworld,andmineownself,arechanged
Foradreamssake.
44
SHUTOUT
Thedoorwasshut.Ilookedbetween
Itsironbars;andsawitlie,
Mygarden,mine,beneaththesky,
Piedwithallflowersbedewedandgreen:
Fromboughtoboughthesongbirdscrossed,
Fromflowertoflowerthemothsandbees;
Withallitsnestsandstatelytrees
Ithadbeenmine,anditwaslost.
Ashadowlessspiritkeptthegate,
Blankandunchanginglikethegrave.10
Ipeeringthroughsaid:Letmehave
Somebudstocheermyoutcaststate.
Heanswerednot.Orgiveme,then,
Butonesmalltwigfromshrubortree;
Andbidmyhomerememberme
UntilIcometoitagain.
Thespiritwassilent;buthetook
Mortarandstonetobuildawall;
Heleftnoloopholegreatorsmall
Throughwhichmystrainingeyesmightlook:20
SonowIsitherequitealone
Blindedwithtears;norgrieveforthat,
Fornoughtisleftworthlookingat
Sincemydelightfullandisgone.
Avioletbedisbuddingnear,
Whereinalarkhasmadehernest:
Andgoodtheyare,butnotthebest;
Anddeartheyare,butnotsodear.
45
SOUNDSLEEP
Somearelaughing,someareweeping;
Sheissleeping,onlysleeping.
Roundherrestwildflowersarecreeping;
Therethewindisheaping,heaping
SweetestsweetsofSummerskeeping.
Bythecornfieldsripeforreaping.
Therearelilies,andthereblushes
Thedeeprose,andtherethethrushes
Singtilllatestsunlightflushes
Inthewest;afreshwindbrushes10
Throughtheleaveswhileeveninghushes.
Therebydaythelarkissinging
Andthegrassandweedsarespringing;
Therebynightthebatiswinging;
Thereforeverwindsarebringing
Faroffchimesofchurchbellsringing.
Nightandmorning,noonandeven,
TheirsoundfillsherdreamswithHeaven:
Thelongstrifeatlentisstriven:
Tillhergravebandsshallberiven20
Suchisthegoodportiongiven
Tohersoulatrestandshriven.
SONG
Shesatandsangalway
Bythegreenmarginofastream,
Watchingthefishesleapandplay
Beneaththegladsunbeam.
Isatandweptalway
Beneaththemoonsmostshadowybeam,
WatchingtheblossomsoftheMay
46
Weepleavesintothestream.
Iweptformemory;
Shesangforhopethatissofair:10
Mytearswereswallowedbythesea;
Hersongsdiedontheair.
SONG
WhenIamdead,mydearest,
Singnosadsongsforme;
Plantthounorosesatmyhead,
Norshadycypresstree:
Bethegreengrassaboveme
Withshowersanddewdropswet;
Andifthouwilt,remember,
Andifthouwilt,forget.
Ishallnotseetheshadows,
Ishallnotfeeltherain;10
Ishallnothearthenightingale
Singon,asifinpain:
Anddreamingthroughthetwilight
Thatdothnotrisenorset,
HaplyImayremember,
Andhaplymayforget.
DEADBEFOREDEATH
Sonnet
Ah!changedandcold,howchangedandverycold,
Withstiffenedsmilinglipsandcoldcalmeyes:
Changed,yetthesame;muchknowing,littlewise;
Thiswasthepromiseofthedaysofold!
47
Grownhardandstubbornintheancientmould,
Grownrigidintheshamoflifelonglies:
Wehopedforbetterthingsasyearswouldrise,
Butitisoverasataleoncetold.
Allfallentheblossomthatnofruitagebore,
Alllostthepresentandthefuturetime,
Alllost,alllost,thelapsethatwentbefore:
Solosttilldeathshuttotheopeneddoor,
Solostfromchimetoeverlastingchime,
Socoldandlostforeverevermore.
BITTERFORSWEET
Summerisgonewithallitsroses,
Itssunandperfumesandsweetflowers,
Itswarmairandrefreshingshowers:
AndevenAutumncloses.
Yea,Autumnschillyselfisgoing,
Andwintercomeswhichisyetcolder;
Eachdaythehoarfrostwaxesbolder,
Andthelastbudsceaseblowing.
SISTERMAUDE
Whotoldmymotherofmyshame,
Whotoldmyfatherofmydear?
OhwhobutMaude,mysisterMaude,
Wholurkedtospyandpeer.
Coldhelies,ascoldasstone,
Withhisclottedcurlsabouthisface:
Thecomeliestcorpseinalltheworld
Andworthyofaqueensembrace.
48
Youmighthavesparedhissoul,sister,
Havesparedmysoul,yourownsoultoo:10
ThoughIhadnotbeenbornatall,
Hedneverhavelookedatyou.
MyfathermaysleepinParadise,
MymotheratHeavengate:
ButsisterMaudeshallgetnosleep
Eitherearlyorlate.
Myfathermaywearagoldengown,
Mymotheracrownmaywin;
IfmydearandIknockedatHeavengate
Perhapstheydletusin:20
ButsisterMaude,ohsisterMaude,
Bideyouwithdeathandsin.
REST
Sonnet
OEarth,lieheavilyuponhereyes;
Sealhersweeteyeswearyofwatching,Earth;
Lieclosearoundher;leavenoroomformirth
Withitsharshlaughter,norforsoundofsighs.
Shehathnoquestions,shehathnoreplies,
Hushedinandcurtainedwithablesseddearth
Ofallthatirkedherfromthehourofbirth;
WithstillnessthatisalmostParadise.
Darknessmoreclearthannoondayholdethher,
Silencemoremusicalthananysong;
Evenherveryhearthasceasedtostir:
UntilthemorningofEternity
Herrestshallnotbeginnorend,butbe;
Andwhenshewakesshewillnotthinkitlong.
49
THEFIRSTSPRINGDAY
Iwonderifthesapisstirringyet,
Ifwintrybirdsaredreamingofamate,
Iffrozensnowdropsfeelasyetthesun
Andcrocusfiresarekindlingonebyone:
Sing,robin,sing;
IstillamsoreindoubtconcerningSpring.
Iwonderifthespringtideofthisyear
WillbringanotherSpringbothlostanddear;
IfheartandspiritwillfindouttheirSpring,
Oriftheworldalonewillbudandsing:10
Sing,hope,tome;
Sweetnotes,myhope,softnotesformemory.
Thesapwillsurelyquickensoonorlate,
Thetardiestbirdwilltwittertoamate;
SoSpringmustdawnagainwithwarmthandbloom,
Orinthisworld,orintheworldtocome:
Sing,voiceofSpring,
TillItooblossomandrejoiceandsing.
THECONVENTTHRESHOLD
Theresbloodbetweenus,love,mylove,
Theresfathersblood,theresbrothersblood;
AndbloodsabarIcannotpass:
Ichoosethestairsthatmountabove,
Stairaftergoldenskywardstair,
Tocityandtoseaofglass.
Mylilyfeetaresoiledwithmud,
Withscarletmudwhichtellsatale
Ofhopethatwas,ofguiltthatwas,
Oflovethatshallnotyetavail;10
Alas,myheart,ifIcouldbare
Myheart,thisselfsamestainisthere:
Iseektheseaofglassandfire
50
Towashthespot,toburnthesnare;
Lo,stairsaremeanttoliftushigher:
Mountwithme,mountthekindledstair.
Youreyeslookearthward,minelookup.
Iseethefaroffcitygrand,
Beyondthehillsawateredland,
Beyondthegulfagleamingstrand20
Ofmansionswheretherighteoussup;
Whosleepateaseamongtheirtrees,
Orwaketosingacadencedhymn
WithCherubimandSeraphim;
TheyboretheCross,theydrainedthecup,
Racked,roasted,crushed,wrenchedlimbfromlimb,
Theytheoffscouringoftheworld:
Theheavenofstarryheavensunfurled,
Thesunbeforetheirfaceisdim.
Youlookingearthwardwhatseeyou?30
Milkwhitewineflushedamongthevines,
Upanddownleaping,toandfro,
Mostglad,mostfull,madestrongwithwines,
Bloomingaspeachespearledwithdew,
Theirgoldenwindyhairafloat,
Lovemusicwarblingintheirthroat,
Youngmenandwomencomeandgo.
Youlinger,yetthetimeisshort:
Fleeforyourlife,girdupyourstrength
Toflee;theshadowsstretchedatlength40
Showthatdaywanes,thatnightdrawsnigh;
Fleetothemountain,tarrynot.
Isthisatimeforsmileandsigh,
Forsongsamongthesecrettrees
Wheresuddenbluebirdsnestandsport?
Thetimeisshortandyetyoustay:
Todaywhileitiscalledtoday
Kneel,wrestle,knock,doviolence,pray;
Todayisshort,tomorrownigh:
Whywillyoudie?whywillyoudie?50
Yousinnedwithmeapleasantsin:
Repentwithme,forIrepent.
51
WoesmetheloreImustunlearn!
Woesmethateasywaywewent,
SoruggedwhenIwouldreturn!
Howlonguntilmysleepbegin,
Howlongshallstretchthesenightsanddays?
Surely,cleanAngelscry,sheprays;
Shelaveshersoulwithtedioustears:
Howlongmuststretchtheseyearsandyears?60
Iturnfromyoumycheeksandeyes,
Myhairwhichyoushallseenomore
Alasforjoythatwentbefore,
Forjoythatdies,forlovethatdies.
Onlymylipsstillturntoyou,
Mylividlipsthatcry,Repent.
Ohwearylife,ohwearyLent,
Ohwearytimewhosestarsarefew.
HowshouldIrestinParadise,
Orsitonstepsofheavenalone?70
IfSaintsandAngelsspokeoflove
ShouldInotanswerfrommythrone:
Havepityuponme,yemyfriends,
ForIhaveheardthesoundthereof:
ShouldInotturnwithyearningeyes,
Turnearthwardswithapitifulpang?
Ohsavemefromapanginheaven.
Byallthegiftswetookandgave,
Repent,repent,andbeforgiven:
Thislifeislong,butyetitends;80
Repentandpurgeyoursoulandsave:
Nogladdersongthemorningstars
Upontheirbirthdaymorningsang
ThanAngelssingwhenonerepents.
ItellyouwhatIdreamedlastnight:
Aspiritwithtransfiguredface
Firefootedclombaninfinitespace.
Iheardhishundredpinionsclang,
Heavenbellsrejoicingrangandrang,
Heavenairwasthrilledwithsubtlescents,90
Worldsspunupontheirrushingcars:
Hemountedshrieking:Givemelight.
52
Stilllightwaspouredonhim,morelight;
Angels,Archangelsheoutstripped
Exultantinexceedingmight,
AndtrodtheskirtsofCherubim.
StillGivemelight,heshrieked;anddipped
Histhirstyface,anddrankasea,
Athirstwiththirstitcouldnotslake.
Isawhim,drunkwithknowledge,take100
Fromachingbrowstheaureolecrown
Hislockswrithedlikeaclovensnake
Helefthisthronetogroveldown
AndlickthedustofSeraphsfeet:
Forwhatisknowledgedulyweighed?
Knowledgeisstrong,butloveissweet;
Yeaalltheprogresshehadmade
Wasbuttolearnthatallissmall
Savelove,forloveisallinall.
ItellyouwhatIdreamedlastnight:110
Itwasnotdark,itwasnotlight,
Colddewshaddrenchedmyplenteoushair
Throughclay;youcametoseekmethere.
AndDoyoudreamofme?yousaid.
Myheartwasdustthatusedtoleap
Toyou;Iansweredhalfasleep:
Mypillowisdamp,mysheetsarered,
Theresaleadentestertomybed:
Findyouawarmerplayfellow,
Awarmerpillowforyourhead,120
Akinderlovetolovethanmine.
Youwrungyourhands;whileIlikelead
Crusheddownwardsthroughthesoddenearth:
Yousmoteyourhandsbutnotinmirth,
Andreeledbutwerenotdrunkwithwine.
ForallnightlongIdreamedofyou:
Iwokeandprayedagainstmywill,
Thenslepttodreamofyouagain.
AtlengthIroseandkneltandprayed:
IcannotwritethewordsIsaid,130
Mywordswereslow,mytearswerefew;
Butthroughthedarkmysilencespoke
Likethunder.Whenthismorningbroke,
53
Myfacewaspinched,myhairwasgrey,
Andfrozenbloodwasonthesill
WherestiflinginmystruggleIlay.
Ifnowyousawmeyouwouldsay:
WhereisthefaceIusedtolove?
AndIwouldanswer:Gonebefore;
Ittarriesveiledinparadise.140
Whenoncethemorningstarshallrise,
Whenearthwithshadowfleesaway
Andwestandsafewithinthedoor,
Thenyoushalllifttheveilthereof.
Lookup,riseup:forfarabove
Ourpalmsaregrown,ourplaceisset;
Thereweshallmeetasoncewemet
Andlovewitholdfamiliarlove.
UPHILL
Doestheroadwinduphillalltheway?
Yes,totheveryend.
Willthedaysjourneytakethewholelongday?
Frommorntonight,myfriend.
Butisthereforthenightarestingplace?
Aroofforwhentheslowdarkhoursbegin.
Maynotthedarknesshideitfrommyface?
Youcannotmissthatinn.
ShallImeetotherwayfarersatnight?
Thosewhohavegonebefore.10
ThenmustIknock,orcallwhenjustinsight?
Theywillnotkeepyoustandingatthatdoor.
ShallIfindcomfort,travelsoreandweak?
Oflabouryoushallfindthesum.
Willtherebebedsformeandallwhoseek?
Yea,bedsforallwhocome.
54
DEVOTIONALPIECES
THELOVEOFCHRISTWHICHPASSETHKNOWLEDGE
Iborewiththeelongwearydaysandnights,
Throughmanypangsofheart,throughmanytears;
Iborewiththee,thyhardness,coldness,slights,
Forthreeandthirtyyears.
WhoelsehaddaredfortheewhatIhavedared?
Iplungedthedepthmostdeepfromblissabove;
InotMyflesh,InotMyspiritspared:
GivethouMeloveforlove.
FortheeIthirstedinthedailydrouth,
FortheeItrembledinthenightlyfrost:10
MuchsweeterthouthanhoneytoMymouth:
Whywiltthoustillbelost?
IboretheeonMyshouldersandrejoiced:
MenonlymarkeduponMyshouldersborne
Thebrandingcross;andshoutedhungryvoiced,
Orwaggedtheirheadsinscorn.
TheedidnailsgraveuponMyhands,thyname
DidthornsforfrontletsstampbetweenMineeyes:
I,HolyOne,putonthyguiltandshame;
I,God,Priest,Sacrifice.20
AthiefuponMyrighthandandMyleft;
Sixhoursalone,athirst,inmisery:
AtlengthindeathonesmoteMyheartandcleft
Ahidingplaceforthee.
Nailedtotherackingcross,thanbedofdown
Moredear,whereontostretchMyselfandsleep:
SodidIwinakingdom,sharemycrown;
Aharvest,comeandreap.
55
ABRUISEDREEDSHALLHENOTBREAK
Iwillacceptthywilltodoandbe,
Thyhatredandintoleranceofsin,
Thywillatleasttolove,thatburnswithin
AndthirstethafterMe:
SowillIrenderfruitful,blessingstill,
Thegermsandsmallbeginningsinthyheart,
Becausethywillcleavestothebetterpart.
Alas,Icannotwill.
Dostnotthouwill,poorsoul?YetIreceive
Theinnerunseenlongingsofthesoul,10
IguidethemturningtowardsMe;Icontrol
Andcharmheartstilltheygrieve:
Ifthoudesire,ityetshallcometopass,
ThoughthoubutwishindeedtochooseMylove;
ForIhavepowerinearthandheavenabove.
Icannotwish,alas!
What,neitherchoosenorwishtochoose?andyet
Istillmuststrivetowintheeandconstrain:
FortheeIhunguponthecrossinpain,
HowthencanIforget?20
Ifthouasyetdostneitherlove,norhate,
Norchoose,norwish,resignthyself,bestill
TillIinfuselove,hatred,longing,will.
Idonotdeprecate.
ABETTERRESURRECTION
Ihavenowit,nowords,notears;
Myheartwithinmelikeastone
Isnumbedtoomuchforhopesorfears.
Lookright,lookleft,Idwellalone;
Iliftmineeyes,butdimmedwithgrief
NoeverlastinghillsIsee;
Mylifeisinthefallingleaf:
56
OJesus,quickenme.
Mylifeislikeafadedleaf,
Myharvestdwindledtoahusk;10
Trulymylifeisvoidandbrief
Andtediousinthebarrendusk;
Mylifeislikeafrozenthing,
NobudnorgreennesscanIsee:
YetriseitshallthesapofSpring;
OJesus,riseinme.
Mylifeislikeabrokenbowl,
Abrokenbowlthatcannothold
Onedropofwaterformysoul
Orcordialinthesearchingcold20
Castinthefiretheperishedthing,
Meltandremouldit,tillitbe
AroyalcupforHimmyKing:
OJesus,drinkofme.
ADVENT
ThisAdventmoonshinescoldandclear,
TheseAdventnightsarelong;
Ourlampshaveburnedyearafteryear
Andstilltheirflameisstrong.
Watchman,whatofthenight?wecry,
Heartsickwithhopedeferred:
Nospeakingsignsareinthesky,
Isstillthewatchmansword.
ThePorterwatchesatthegate,
Theservantswatchwithin;10
Thewatchislongbetimesandlate,
Theprizeisslowtowin.
Watchman,whatofthenight?Butstill
Hisanswersoundsthesame:
Nodaybreaktopstheutmosthill,
Norpaleourlampsofflame.
57
Onetoanotherhearthemspeak
Thepatientvirginswise:
SurelyHeisnotfartoseek
Allnightwewatchandrise.20
Thedaysareevillookingback,
Thecomingdaysaredim;
YetcountwenotHispromiseslack,
ButwatchandwaitforHim.
Onewithanother,soulwithsoul,
Theykindlefirefromfire:
Friendswatchuswhohavetouchedthegoal.
Theyurgeus,comeuphigher.
Withthemshallrestourwaysorefeet,
Withthemisbuiltourhome,30
WithChrist.Theysweet,butHemostsweet,
Sweeterthanhoneycomb.
Therenomoreparting,nomorepain,
Thedistantonesbroughtnear,
Thelostsolongarefoundagain,
Longlostbutlongerdear:
Eyehathnotseen,earhathnotheard,
Norheartconceivedthatrest,
Withthemourgoodthingslongdeferred,
WithJesusChristourBest.40
Weweepbecausethenightislong,
Welaughfordayshallrise,
Wesingaslowcontentedsong
AndknockatParadise.
WeepingweholdHimfast,Whowept
Forus,weholdHimfast;
AndwillnotletHimgoexcept
Heblessusfirstorlast.
WeepingweholdHimfasttonight;
WewillnotletHimgo50
Tilldaybreaksmiteourweariedsight
Andsummersmitethesnow:
Thenfigsshallbud,anddovewithdove
Shallcoothelivelongday;
ThenHeshallsay,Arise,Mylove,
58
Myfairone,comeaway.
THETHREEENEMIES
THEFLESH
Sweet,thouartpale.
Morepaletosee,
Christhunguponthecrueltree
AndboreHisFatherswrathforme.
Sweet,thouartsad.
Beneatharod
Moreheavy,Christformysaketrod
ThewinepressofthewrathofGod.
Sweet,thouartweary.
NotsoChrist:
Whosemightyloveofmesufficed
ForStrength,Salvation,Eucharist.
Sweet,thouartfootsore.
IfIbleed,10
Hisfeethavebled;yeainmyneed
HisHeartoncebledformineindeed.
THEWORLD
Sweet,thouartyoung.
SoHewasyoung
Whoformysakeinsilencehung
UpontheCrosswithPassionwrung.
Look,thouartfair.
Hewasmorefair
Thanmen,Whodeignedformetowear
Avisagemarredbeyondcompare.
Andthouhastriches.
Dailybread:
59
AllelseisHis:Who,living,dead,20
FormelackedwheretolayHisHead.
Andlifeissweet.
Itwasnotso
ToHim,WhoseCupdidoverflow
Withmineunutterablewoe.
THEDEVIL
Thoudrinkestdeep.
WhenChristwouldsup
Hedrainedthedregsfromoutmycup:
SohowshouldIbeliftedup?
ThoushaltwinGlory.
Intheskies,
LordJesus,coverupmineeyes
Lesttheyshouldlookonvanities.30
ThoushalthaveKnowledge.
Helplessdust!
InThee,OLord,Iputmytrust:
AnswerThouforme,WiseandJust.
AndMight.
Gettheebehindme.Lord,
Whohastredeemedandnotabhorred
Mysoul,ohkeepitbyThyWord.
THEONECERTAINTY
Sonnet
Vanityofvanities,thePreachersaith,
Allthingsarevanity.Theeyeandear
Cannotbefilledwithwhattheyseeandhear.
Likeearlydew,orlikethesuddenbreath
Ofwind,orlikethegrassthatwithereth,
60
Isman,tossedtoandfrobyhopeandfear:
Solittlejoyhathhe,solittlecheer,
Tillallthingsendinthelongdustofdeath.
Todayisstillthesameasyesterday,
Tomorrowalsoevenasoneofthem;
Andthereisnothingnewunderthesun:
UntiltheancientraceofTimeberun,
Theoldthornsshallgrowoutoftheoldstem,
Andmorningshallbecoldandtwilightgrey.
CHRISTIANANDJEW
ADIALOGUE
Ohhappyhappyland!
Angelslikerushesstand
Aboutthewellsoflight.
Alas,Ihavenoteyesforthisfairsight:
Holdfastmyhand.
Asinasoftwind,they
Bendalloneblessedway,
Eachbowedinhisownglory,starwithstar.
Icannotseesofar,
Hereshadowsare.10
Whitewingedthecherubim,
Yetwhiterseraphim,
Glowwhitewithintensefireoflove.
Mineeyesaredim:
Ilookinvainabove,
Andmisstheirhymn.
Angels,Archangelscry
Onetootherceaselessly
(Ihearthemsing)
OneHoly,Holy,HolytotheirKing.20
Idonothearthem,I.
AtonesideParadise
61
Iscurtainedfromtherest,
Madegreenforweariedeyes;
Muchsofterthanthebreast
Ofmotherdovecladinarainbowsdyes.
Allprecioussoulsarethere
Mostsafe,electbygrace,
Alltearsarewipedforeverfromtheirface:
Untiredinprayer30
Theywaitandpraise
Hiddenforalittlespace.
BoughsoftheLivingVine
Theyspreadinsummershine
Greenleafwithleaf:
SapoftheRoyalVineitstirslikewine
Inallbothlessandchief.
SingtotheLord,
Allspiritsofallflesh,sing;
ForHehathnotabhorred40
Ourlowestatenorscorndouroffering:
ShouttoourKing.
ButZionsaid:
MyLordforgettethme.
Lo,shehathmadeherbed
Indust;forsakenweepethshe
Wherealienriversswellthesea.
Shelaidherbodyastheground,
Hertenderbodyasthegroundtothose
Whopassed;herharpstringscannotsound50
Inastrangeland;discrowned
Shesits,anddrunkwithwoes.
Odrunkennotwithwine,
Whosesinsandsorrowshavefulfilledthesum,
Benotafraid,arise,benomoredumb;
Arise,shine,
Forthylightiscome.
Cantheseboneslive?
62
Godknows:
Theprophetsawsuchclothedwithfleshandskin;
Awindblewonthemandlifeenteredin;60
Theyshookandrose.
Hastenthetime,OLord,blotouttheirsin,
Letlifebegin.
SWEETDEATH
Thesweetestblossomsdie.
Andsoitwasthat,goingdaybyday
Untothechurchtopraiseandpray,
Andcrossingthegreenchurchyardthoughtfully,
Isawhowonthegravestheflowers
Shedtheirfreshleavesinshowers,
Andhowtheirperfumeroseuptothesky
Beforeitpassedaway.
Theyoungestblossomsdie.
Theydie,andfallandnourishtherichearth10
Fromwhichtheylatelyhadtheirbirth;
Sweetlife,butsweeterdeaththatpassethby
Andisasthoughithadnotbeen:
Allcolorsturntogreen:
Thebrighthuesvanish,andtheodoursfly,
Thegrasshathlastingworth.
Andyouthandbeautydie.
Sobeit,OmyGod,ThouGodoftruth:
Betterthanbeautyandthanyouth
AreSaintsandAngels,agladcompany;20
AndThou,Olord,ourRestandEase,
Arebetterfarthanthese.
Whyshouldweshrinkfromourfullharvest?why
PrefertogleanwithRuth?
63
SYMBOLS
Iwatchedarosebudverylong
Broughtonbydewandsunandshower,
Waitingtoseetheperfectflower:
Then,whenIthoughtitshouldbestrong,
Itopenedatthematinhour
Andfellatevensong.
Iwatchedanestfromdaytoday,
Agreennestfullofpleasantshade,
Whereinthreespeckledeggswerelaid:
ButwhentheyshouldhavehatchedinMay,10
Thetwooldbirdshadgrownafraid
Ortired,andflewaway.
TheninmywrathIbrokethebough
ThatIhadtendedsowithcare,
Hopingitsscentshouldfilltheair;
Icrushedtheeggs,notheedinghow
Theirancientpromisehadbeenfair:
Iwouldhavevengeancenow.
Butthedeadbranchspokefromthesod,
Andtheeggsansweredmeagain:20
Becausewefaileddostthoucomplain?
Isthywrathjust?AndwhatifGod,
Whowaitethforthyfruitsinvain,
Shouldalsotaketherod?
CONSIDERTHELILIESOFTHEFIELD
Flowerspreachtousifwewillhear:
Therosesaithinthedewymorn:
Iammostfair;
Yetallmylovelinessisborn
Uponathorn.
Thepoppysaithamidthecorn:
64
Letbutmyscarletheadappear
AndIamheldinscorn;
Yetjuiceofsubtlevirtuelies
Withinmycupofcuriousdyes.10
Theliliessay:Beholdhowwe
Preachwithoutwordsofpurity.
Thevioletswhisperfromtheshade
Whichtheirownleaveshavemade:
Menscentourfragranceontheair,
Yettakenoheed
Ofhumblelessonswewouldread.
Butnotalonethefairestflowers:
Themerestgrass
Alongtheroadsidewherewepass,20
Lichenandmossandsturdyweed,
TellofHislovewhosendsthedew,
Therainandsunshinetoo,
Tonourishonesmallseed.
THEWORLD
Sonnet
Bydayshewoosme,soft,exceedingfair:
Butallnightasthemoonsochangethshe;
Loathsomeandfoulwithhideousleprosy
Andsubtleserpentsglidinginherhair.
Bydayshewoosmetotheouterair,
Ripefruits,sweetflowers,andfullsatiety:
Butthroughthenight,abeastshegrinsatme,
Averymonstervoidofloveandprayer.
Bydayshestandsalie:bynightshestands
Inallthenakedhorrorofthetruth
Withpushinghornsandclawedandclutchinghands.
Isthisafriendindeed;thatIshouldsell
Mysoultoher,givehermylifeandyouth,
Tillmyfeet,cloventoo,takeholdonhell?
65
ATESTIMONY
Isaidoflaughter:itisvain.
OfmirthIsaid:whatprofitsit?
ThereforeIfoundabook,andwrit
Thereinhoweaseandalsopain,
Howhealthandsickness,everyone
Isvanitybeneaththesun.
Manwalksinavainshadow;he
Disquietethhimselfinvain.
Thethingsthatwereshallbeagain;
Theriversdonotfillthesea,10
Butturnbacktotheirsecretsource;
Thewindstooturnupontheircourse.
Ourtreasuresmothandrustcorrupt,
Orthievesbreakthroughandsteal,orthey
Makethemselveswingsandflyaway.
Onemanmademerryashesupped,
Norguessedhowwhenthatnightgrewdim,
Hissoulwouldberequiredofhim.
Webuildourhousesonthesand
Comelywithoutsideandwithin;20
Butwhenthewindsandrainsbegin
Tobeatonthem,theycannotstand;
Theyperish,quicklyoverthrown,
Loosefromtheverybasementstone.
Allthingsarevanity,Isaid:
Yeavanityofvanities.
Therichmandies;andthepoordies:
Thewormfeedssweetlyonthedead.
Whateerthoulackest,keepthistrust:
Allintheendshallhavebutdust.30
Theoneinheritance,whichbest
Andworstalikeshallfindandshare:
Thewickedceasefromtroublingthere,
Andtherethewearyareatrest;
Thereallthewisdomofthewise
66
Isvanityofvanities.
Manflourishesasagreenleaf,
Andasaleafdothpassaway;
Orasashadethatcannotstay,
Andleavesnotrack,hiscourseisbrief:40
Yetdothmanhopeandfearandplan
Tillheisdead:ohfoolishman!
Oureyescannotbesatisfied
Withseeing,norourearsbefilled
Withhearing:yetweplantandbuild
Andbuyandmakeourborderswide;
Wegatherwealth,wegathercare,
Butknownotwhoshallbeourheir.
Whyshouldwehastentoarise
Soearly,andsolatetakerest?50
Ourlabourisnotgood;ourbest
Hopesfade;ourheartisstayedonlies:
Verily,wesowwind;andwe
Shallreapthewhirlwind,verily.
Hewhohathlittleshallnotlack;
Hewhohathplentyshalldecay:
Ourfatherswent;wepassaway;
Ourchildrenfollowonourtrack:
Sogenerationsfail,andso
Theyarerenewed,andcomeandgo.60
Theearthisfattenedwithourdead;
Sheswallowsmoreanddothnotcease:
Thereforeherwineandoilincrease
Andhersheavesarenotnumbered;
Thereforeherplantsaregreen,andall
Herpleasanttreeslustyandtall.
Thereforethemaidensceasetosing,
Andtheyoungmenareverysad;
Thereforethesowingisnotglad,
Andmournfulistheharvesting.70
Ofhighandlow,ofgreatandsmall,
Vanityisthelotofall.
67
AKingdweltinJerusalem;
Hewasthewisestmanonearth;
Hehadallrichesfromhisbirth,
Andpleasurestillhetiredofthem;
Then,havingtestedallthings,he
Witnessedthatallarevanity.
SLEEPATSEA
Soundthedeepwaters:
Whoshallsoundthatdeep?
Tooshorttheplummet,
Andthewatchmensleep.
Somedreamofeffort
Upatoilsomesteep;
Somedreamofpasturegrounds
Forharmlesssheep.
Whiteshapesflittoandfro
Frommasttomast;10
Theyfeelthedistanttempest
Thatnearsthemfast:
Greatrocksarestraightahead,
Greatshoalsnotpast;
Theyshouttooneanother
Upontheblast.
Oh,softthestreamsdropmusic
Betweenthehills,
Andmusicalthebirdsnests
Besidethoserills:20
Thenestsaretypesofhome
Lovehiddenfromills,
Thenestsaretypesofspirits
Lovemusicfills.
Sodreamthesleepers,
Eachmaninhisplace;
Thelightningshowsthesmile
68
Uponeachface:
Theshipisdriving,driving,
Itdrivesapace:30
Andsleeperssmile,andspirits
Bewailtheircase.
Thelightningglaresandreddens
Acrosstheskies;
Itseemsbutsunset
Tothosesleepingeyes.
Whendidthesungodown
Onsuchawise?
Fromsuchasunset
Whenshalldayarise?40
Wake,callthespirits:
Buttoheedlessears:
Theyhaveforgottensorrows
Andhopesandfears;
Theyhaveforgottenperils
Andsmilesandtears;
Theirdreamhasheldthemlong,
Longyearsandyears.
Wake,callthespiritsagain:
Butitwouldtake50
Aloudersummons
Tobidthemawake.
Somedreamofpleasure
Foranotherssake;
Somedream,forgetful
Ofalifelongache.
Onebyoneslowly,
Ah,howsadandslow!
Wailingandpraying
Thespiritsriseandgo:60
Clearstainlessspirits
Whiteaswhiteassnow;
Palespirits,wailing
Foranoverthrow.
Onebyoneflitting,
69
Likeamournfulbird
Whosesongistiredatlast
Fornomateisheard.
Thelovingvoiceissilent,
Theuselessword;70
Onebyoneflitting
Sickwithhopedeferred.
Drivinganddriving,
Theshipdrivesamain:
Whileswiftfrommasttomast
Shapesflitagain,
Flitsilentasthesilence
Wheremenlieslain;
Theirshadowcastuponthesails
Islikeastain.80
Novoicetocallthesleepers,
Nohandtoraise:
Theysleeptodeathindreaming,
Oflengthofdays.
Vanityofvanities,
ThePreachersays:
Vanityistheend
Ofalltheirways.
FROMHOUSETOHOME
Thefirstwaslikeadreamthroughsummerheat,
Thesecondlikeatediousnumbingswoon,
Whilethehalffrozenpulseslaggedtobeat
Beneathawintermoon.
But,saysmyfriend,whatwasthisthingandwhere?
Itwasapleasureplacewithinmysoul;
Anearthlyparadisesupremelyfair
Thatluredmefromthegoal.
Thefirstpartwasatissueofhuggedlies;
70
Thesecondwasitsruinfraughtwithpain:10
Whyraisethefairdelusiontotheskies
Buttobedashedagain?
Mycastlestoodofwhitetransparentglass
Glitteringandfrailwithmanyafrettedspire,
Butwhenthesummersunsetcametopass
Itkindledintofire.
Mypleasauncewasanundulatinggreen,
Statelywithtreeswhoseshadowssleptbelow,
Withglimpsesofsmoothgardenbedsbetween
Likeflameorskyorsnow.20
Swiftsquirrelsonthepasturestooktheirease,
Withleapinglambssafefromtheunfearedknife;
Allsingingbirdsrejoicinginthosetrees
Fulfilledtheircarelesslife.
Woodpigeonscooedthere,stockdovesnestledthere;
Mytreeswerefullofsongsandflowersandfruit,
Theirbranchesspreadacitytotheair
Andmicelodgedintheirroot.
Myheathlayfartheroff,wherelizardslived
Instrangemetallicmail,justspiedandgone;30
Likedartedlightningshereandthereperceived
Butnowheredweltupon.
Frogsandfattoadsweretheretohoporplod
Andpropagateinpeace,anuncouthcrew,
Wherevelvetheadedrushesrustlingnod
Andspillthemorningdew.
Allcaterpillarsthrovebeneathmyrule,
Withsnailsandslugsincornersoutofsight;
Inevermarredthecurioussuddenstool
Thatperfectsinanight.40
Safeinhisexcavatedgallery
Theburrowingmolegropedonfromyeartoyear;
Noharmlesshedgehogcurledbecauseofme
Hispricklybackforfear.
71
Ofttimesonelikeanangelwalkedwithme,
Withspiritdiscerningeyeslikeflamesoffire,
Butdeepastheunfathomedendlesssea,
Fulfillingmydesire:
Andsometimeslikeasnowdrifthewasfair,
Andsometimeslikeasunsetgloriousred,50
Andsometimeshehadwingstoscaletheair
Withaureoleroundhishead.
Wesangoursongstogetherbytheway,
Callsandrecallsandechoesofdelight;
Socommunedwetogetheralltheday,
Andsoindreamsbynight.
Ihavenowordstotellwhatwaywewalked.
Whatunforgottenpathnowclosedandsealed;
Ihavenowordstotellallthingswetalked,
Allthingsthatherevealed:60
ThisonlycanItell:thathourbyhour
Iwaxedmorefeastful,liftedupandglad;
IfeltnothornprickwhenIpluckedaflower,
Feltnotmyfriendwassad.
Tomorrow,onceIsaidtohimwithsmiles:
Tonight,heansweredgravelyandwasdumb,
Butpointedoutthestonesthatnumberedmiles
Andmilestocome.
Notso,Isaid:tomorrowshallbesweet;
Tonightisnotsosweetascomingdays.70
ThenfirstIsawthathehadturnedhisfeet,
Hadturnedfrommehisface:
Runningandflyingmilesandmileshewent,
Butoncelookedbacktobeckonwithhishand
Andcry:Comehome,Olove,frombanishment:
Cometothedistantland.
Thatnightdestroyedmelikeanavalanche;
Onenightturnedallmysummerbacktosnow:
Nextmorningnotabirduponmybranch,
72
Notalambwokebelow,80
Nobird,nolamb,nolivingbreathingthing;
Nosquirrelscamperedonmybreezylawn,
Nomouselodgedbyhishoard:alljoystookwing
Andfledbeforethatdawn.
Azureandsunwerestarvedfromheavenabove,
Nodewhadfallen,butbitingfrostlayhoar:
Olove,IknewthatIshouldmeetmylove,
Shouldfindmylovenomore.
Mylovenomore,Imutteredstunnedwithpain:
Ishednotear,Iwrungnopassionatehand,90
Tillsomethingwhispered:Youshallmeetagain,
Meetinadistantland.
ThenwithacrylikefamineIarose,
Ilitmycandle,searchedfromroomtoroom,
Searchedupanddown;awarofwindsthatfroze
Sweptthroughtheblankofgloom.
Isearcheddayafterday,nightafternight;
Scantchangetherecametomeofnightorday:
Nomore,Iwailed,nomore:andtrimmedmylight,
Andgnashedbutdidnotpray,100
Untilmyheartbrokeandmyspiritbroke:
UponthefrostboundfloorIstumbled,fell,
Andmoaned:Itisenough:withholdthestroke.
Farewell,Olove,farewell.
Thenlifeswoonedfromme.AndIheardthesong
Ofspheresandspiritsrejoicingoverme:
Onecried:Oursister,shehathsufferedlong.
Oneanswered:Makehersee.
Onecried:Ohblessedshewhonomorepain,
Whonomoredisappointmentshallreceive.110
Oneanswered:Notso:shemustliveagain;
Strengthenthouhertolive.
SowhileIlayentrancedacurtainseemed
73
Toshrivelwithcracklingfrombeforemyface;
Acrossmineeyesawaxingradiancebeamed
Andshowedacertainplace.
Isawavisionofawoman,where
Nightandnewmorningstrivefordomination;
Incomparablypale,andalmostfair,
Andsadbeyondexpression.120
Hereyeswerelikesomefireenshrininggem,
Werestatelylikethestars,andyetweretender;
Herfigurecharmedmelikeawindystem
Quiveringanddroopedandslender.
Istoodupontheouterbarrenground,
Shestoodoninnergroundthatbuddedflowers;
Whilecirclingintheirneverslackeninground
Dancedbythemystichours.
Buteveryflowerwasliftedonathorn,
Andeverythornshotuprightfromitssands130
Togallherfeet;hoarselaughterpealedinscorn
Withcruelclappinghands.
Shebledandwept,yetdidnotshrink;herstrength
Wasstrungupuntildaybreakofdelight:
Shemeasuredmeasurelesssorrowtowarditslength,
Andbreadth,anddepth,andheight.
ThenmarkedIhowachainsustainedherform,
Achainoflivinglinksnotmadenorriven:
Itstretchedsheerupthroughlighting,wind,andstorm,
Andanchoredfastinheaven.140
Onecried:Howlong?yetfoundedontheRock
Sheshalldobattle,suffer,andattain.
Oneanswered:Faithquakesinthetempestshock:
Strengthenhersoulagain.
Isawacupsentdownandcometoher
Brimfullofloathingandofbitterness:
Shedrankwithlividlipsthatseemedtostir
Thedepth,notmakeitless.
74
ButasshedrankIspiedahanddistil
Newwineandvirginhoney;makingit150
Firstbittersweet,thensweetindeed,until
Shetastedonlysweet.
Herlipsandcheekswaxedrosyfreshandyoung;
Drinkingshesang:Mysoulshallnothingwant;
Anddrankanew:whilesoftasongwassung,
Amysticalslowchant.
Onecried:Thewoundsarefaithfulofafriend:
Thewildernessshallblossomasarose.
Oneanswered:Rendtheveil,declaretheend,
Strengthenherereshegoes.160
Thenearthandheavenwererolleduplikeascroll;
Timeandspace,changeanddeath,hadpassedaway;
Weight,number,measure,eachhadreacheditswhole;
Thedayhadcome,thatday.
Multitudesmultitudesstoodupinbliss,
Madeequaltotheangels,glorious,fair;
Withharps,palms,weddinggarments,kissofpeace
Andcrownedandhaloedhair.
Theysangasong,anewsongintheheight,
HarpingwithharpstoHimWhoisStrongandTrue:170
Theydranknewwine,theireyessawwithnewlight,
Lo,allthingsweremadenew.
Tierbeyondtiertheyroseandroseandrose
Sohighthatitwasdreadful,flameswithflames:
Nomancouldnumberthem,notonguedisclose
Theirsecretsacrednames.
Asthoughonepulsestirredall,onerushofblood
Fedall,onebreathsweptthroughthemmyriadvoiced,
Theystrucktheirharps,castdowntheircrowns,theystood
Andworshippedandrejoiced.180
Eachfacelookedonewaylikeamoonnewlit,
EachfacelookedonewaytowardsitsSunofLove;
Drankloveandbathedinloveandmirroredit
75
Andknewnoendthereof.
Glorytouchedgloryoneachblessedhead,
Handslockeddearhandsnevertosundermore:
Thesewerethenewbegottenfromthedead
Whomthegreatbirthdaybore.
Heartansweredheart,soulansweredsoulatrest,
Doubleagainsteachother,filled,sufficed:190
Allloving,lovedofall;butlovingbest
AndbestbelovedofChrist.
Isawthatonewholostherloveinpain,
Whotrodonthorns,whodranktheloathsomecup;
Thelostinnight,indaywasfoundagain;
Thefallenwasliftedup.
Theystoodtogetherintheblessednoon,
Theysangtogetherthroughthelengthofdays;
EachlovingfacebentSunwardslikeamoon
Newlitwithloveandpraise.200
Therefore,Ofriend,IwouldnotifImight
Rebuildmyhouseoflies,whereinIjoyed
Onetimetodwell:mysoulshallwalkinwhite,
Castdownbutnotdestroyed.
ThereforeinpatienceIpossessmysoul;
Yea,thereforeasaflintIsetmyface,
Topluckdown,tobuildupagainthewhole
Butinadistantplace.
Thesethornsaresharp,yetIcantreadonthem;
Thiscupisloathsome,yetHemakesitsweet:210
MyfaceissteadfasttowardJerusalem,
Myheartremembersit.
Iliftthehanginghands,thefeebleknees
I,preciousmorethanseventimesmoltengold
Untilthedaywhenfromhisstorehouses
Godshallbringnewandold;
Beautyforashes,oilofjoyforgrief,
76
Garmentofpraiseforspiritofheaviness:
AlthoughtodayIfadeasdothaleaf,
Ilanguishandgrowless.220
AlthoughtodayHeprunesmytwigswithpain,
YetdothHisbloodnourishandwarmmyroot:
TomorrowIshallputforthbudsagain
Andclothemyselfwithfruit.
AlthoughtodayIwalkintediousways,
TodayHisstaffisturnedintoarod,
YetwillIwaitforHimtheappointeddays
AndstayuponmyGod.
OLDANDNEWYEARDITTIES
NewYearmetmesomewhatsad:
OldYearleavesmetired,
StrippedoffavouritethingsIhad
Baulkedofmuchdesired:
Yetfartheronmyroadtoday
Godwilling,fartheronmyway.
NewYearcomingonapace
Whathaveyoutogiveme?
Bringyouscathe,orbringyougrace,
Facemewithanhonestface;10
Youshallnotdeceiveme:
Beitgoodorill,beitwhatyouwill,
Itneedsshallhelpmeonmyroad,
Myruggedwaytoheaven,pleaseGod.
Watchwithme,men,women,andchildrendear,
YouwhomIlove,forwhomIhopeandfear,
Watchwithmethislastvigiloftheyear.
Somehugtheirbusiness,sometheirpleasurescheme;
77
Someseizethevacanthourtosleepordream;
Heartlockedinheartsomekneelandwatchapart.
Watchwithmeblessedspirits,whodelight
Allthroughtheholynighttowalkinwhite,
Ortakeyoureaseafterthelongdrawnfight.
Iknownotiftheywatchwithme:Iknow10
Theycountthiseveofresurrectionslow,
Andcry,Howlong?withurgentutterancestrong.
WatchwithmeJesus,inmyloneliness:
Thoughotherssaymenay,yetsayThouyes;
Thoughotherspassmeby,stopThoutobless.
Yea,Thoudoststopwithmethisvigilnight;
Tonightofpain,tomorrowofdelight:
I,Love,amThine;Thou,LordmyGod,artmine.
Passingaway,saiththeWorld,passingaway:
Chances,beautyandyouthsappeddaybyday:
Thylifenevercontinuethinonestay.
Istheeyewaxendim,isthedarkhairchangingtogrey
Thathathwonneitherlaurelnorbay?
IshallclothemyselfinSpringandbudinMay:
Thou,rootstricken,shaltnotrebuildthydecay
Onmybosomforaye.
ThenIanswered:Yea.
Passingaway,saithmySoul,passingaway:10
Withitsburdenoffearandhope,oflabourandplay;
Hearkenwhatthepastdothwitnessandsay:
Rustinthygold,amothisinthinearray,
Acankerisinthybud,thyleafmustdecay.
Atmidnight,atcockcrow,atmorning,onecertainday
Lo,theBridegroomshallcomeandshallnotdelay:
Watchthouandpray.
ThenIanswered:Yea.
Passingaway,saithmyGod,passingaway:
Winterpassethafterthelongdelay:20
Newgrapesonthevine,newfigsonthetenderspray,
TurtlecallethturtleinHeavensMay.
78
ThoughItarrywaitforMe,trustMe,watchandpray:
Arise,comeaway,nightispastandloitisday,
Mylove,Mysister,Myspouse,thoushalthearMesay.
ThenIanswered:Yea.
AMEN
Itisover.Whatisover?
Nay,nowmuchisovertruly!
Harvestdayswetoiledtosowfor;
Nowthesheavesaregatherednewly,
Nowthewheatisgarneredduly.
Itisfinished.Whatisfinished?
Muchisfinishedknownorunknown:
Livesarefinished;timediminished;
Wasthefallowfieldleftunsown?
Willthesebudsbealwaysunblown?10
Itsuffices.Whatsuffices?
Allsufficesreckonedrightly:
Springshallbloomwherenowtheiceis,
Rosesmakethebramblesightly,
Andthequickeningsunshinebrightly,
Andthelatterwindblowlightly,
Andmygardenteemwithspices.
79
THEPRINCESPROGRESS,ANDOTHERPOEMS,1866
THEPRINCESPROGRESS
Tillallsweetgumsandjuicesflow,
Tilltheblossomofblossomsblow,
Thelonghoursgoandcomeandgo,
Thebrideshesleepeth,waketh,sleepeth,
Waitingforonewhosecomingisslow:
Hark!thebrideweepeth.
HowlongshallIwait,comeheatcomerime?
TillthestrongPrincecomes,whomustcomeintime
(Herwomensay),theresamountaintoclimb,
Arivertoford.Sleep,dreamandsleep;10
Sleep(theysay):wevemuffledthechime,
Betterdreamthanweep.
InhisworldendpalacethestrongPrincesat,
Takinghiseaseoncushionandmat,
Closeathandlayhisstaffandhishat.
Whenwiltthoustart?thebridewaits,Oyouth.
Nowthemoonsatfull;Itarriedforthat,
NowIstartintruth.
Buttellmefirst,truevoiceofmydoom,
Ofmyveiledbrideinhermaidenbloom;20
Keepsshewatchthroughglareandthroughgloom,
Watchformeasleepandawake?
Spellboundshewatchesinonewhiteroom,
Andispatientforthysake.
Byherheadliliesandrosebudsgrow;
Theliliesdroop,willtherosebudsblow?
Thesilverslimlilieshangtheheadlow;
Theirstreamisscanty,theirsunshinerare:
Letthesunblazeout,andletthestreamflow,
Theywillblossomandwaxfair.30
Redandwhitepoppiesgrowatherfeet,
Thebloodredwaitforsweetsummerheat,
80
Wrappedinbudcoatshairyandneat;
Butthewhitebudsswell,onedaytheywillburst,
Willopentheirdeathcupsdrowsyandsweet
Whichwillopenthefirst?
Thenahundredsadvoicesliftedawail,
Andahundredgladvoicespipedonthegale:
Timeisshort,lifeisshort,theytookupthetale:
Lifeissweet,loveissweet,usetodaywhileyoumay;40
Loveissweet,andtomorrowmayfail;
Loveissweet,usetoday.
Whilethesongsweptby,beseechingandmeek,
UprosethePrincewithaflushonhischeek,
Upherosetostirandtoseek,
Goingforthinthejoyofhisstrength;
Strongoflimbifofpurposeweak,
Startingatlength.
Forthhesetinthebreezymorn,
Crossinggreenfieldsofnoddingcorn,50
AsgoodlyaPrinceaseverwasborn;
Carollingwiththecarollinglark;
Surehisbridewillbewonandworn,
Erefallofthedark.
Solighthisstep,somerryhissmile,
Amilkmaidloiteredbesideastile,
Setdownherpailandrestedawhile,
Awavehairedmilkmaid,rosyandwhite;
ThePrince,whohadjourneyedatleastamile,
Grewathirstatthesight.60
Willyougivemeamorningdraught?
Yourekindlywelcome,shesaid,andlaughed.
Heliftedthepail,newmilkhequaffed;
Thenwipinghiscurlyblackbeardlikesilk:
Whitestcowthateverwascalved
Surelygaveyouthismilk.
Wasitmilknow,orwasitcream?
Wassheamaid,oranevildream?
Hereeyesbegantoglitterandgleam;
81
Hewouldhavegone,buthestayedinstead;70
Greentheygleamedashelookedinthem:
Givememyfee,shesaid.
Iwillgiveyouajewelofgold.
Notso;goldisheavyandcold.
Iwillgiveyouavelvetfold
Offoreignworkyourbeautytodeck.
BetterIlikemykerchiefrolled
Lightandwhiteroundmyneck.
Nay,criedhe,butfixyourownfee.
Shelaughed,Youmaygivethefullmoontome;80
Orelsesitunderthisappletree
Hereforoneidledaybymyside;
AfterthatIllletyougofree,
Andtheworldiswide.
Lothtostay,buttoleaveherslack,
Hehalfturnedaway,thenhequiteturnedback:
Forcourtesyssakehecouldnotlack
Toredeemhisownroyalpledge;
Aheadtoothewindyheavenloweredblack
Withafireclovenedge.90
Sohestretchedhislengthintheappletreeshade,
Layandlaughedandtalkedtothemaid,
Whotwistedherhairinacunningbraid
Andwritheditshininginserpentcoils,
Andheldhimadayandnightfastlaid
Inhersubtletoils.
Atthedeathofnightandthebirthofday,
Whentheowlleftoffhissoberplay,
Andthebathunghimselfoutoftheway,
Wokethesongofmavisandmerle,100
Andheavenputoffitshoddengrey
Formotheropearl.
Peepedupdaisieshereandthere,
Here,there,andeverywhere;
Roseahopefullarkintheair,
Spreadingouttowardsthesunhisbreast;
82
Whilethemoonsetsolemnandfair
AwayintheWest.
Up,up,up,calledthewatchmanlark,
Inhisclearreveillee:Hearken,ohhark!110
Presstothehighgoal,flytothemark.
Up,Osluggard,newmornisborn;
Ifstillasleepwhenthenightfallsdark,
Thoumustwaitasecondmorn.
Up,up,up,sadgladvoicesswelled:
Sothetreefallsandliesasitsfelled.
Bethybandsloosed,Osleeper,longheld
Insweetsleepwhoseendisnotsweet.
Betheslacknessgirtandthesoftnessquelled
Andtheslownessfleet.120
Offheset.Thegrassgrewrare,
Ablightlurkedinthedarkeningair,
Theverymossgrewhuelessandspare,
Thelastdaisystoodallastunt;
Behindhisbackthesoillaybare,
Butbarerinfront.
Alandofchasmandrent,aland
Ofruggedblacknessoneitherhand:
Ifwatertrickleditstrackwastanned
Withanedgeofrusttothechink;130
Ifonestampedonstoneoronsand
Itreturnedaclink.
Alifelessland,alovelessland,
Withoutlairornestoneitherhand:
Onlyscorpionsjerkedinthesand,
Blackasblackiron,ordustypale;
Frompointtopointsheerrockwasmanned
Byscorpionsinmail.
Alandofneitherlifenordeath,
Wherenomanbuildethorfashioneth,140
Wherenonedrawslivingordyingbreath;
Nomancomethorgoeththere,
Nomandoeth,seeketh,saith,
83
Inthestagnantair.
Someoldvolcanicupsetmust
Haverentthecrustandblackenedthecrust;
Wrenchedandribbeditbeneathitsdust
Aboveearthsmoltencentreatseethe,
Heavedandheapeditbyhugeupthrust
Offirebeneath.150
Untroddenbefore,untroddensince:
TediouslandforasocialPrince;
Halting,hescannedtheoutsandins,
Endless,labyrinthine,grim,
Ofthesolitudethatmadehimwince,
Layingwaitforhim.
Bybulgingrockandgapingcleft,
Evenofhalfmeredaylightreft,
Ruefulhepeeredtorightandleft,
Mutteringinhisalteredmood:160
Thefateishardthatweavesmyweft,
Thoughmylotbegood.
Dimthechangesofdaytonight,
Ofnightscarcedarktodaynotbright.
Stillhisroadwoundtowardstheright,
Stillhewent,andstillhewent,
Tillonenightheespiedalight,
Inhisdiscontent.
Outitflashedfromayawnmouthedcave,
Likearedhoteyefromagrave.170
Nomanstoodthereofwhomtocrave
Restforwayfarerploddingby:
Thoughthetenantwerechurlorknave
ThePrincemighttry.
Inhepassedandtarriednot,
Gropinghiswayfromspottospot,
Towardswherethecavernflareglowedhot:
Anold,oldmortal,crampedanddouble,
Waspeeringintoaseethingpot,
Inaworldoftrouble.180
84
Theveriestatomyhelooked,
Withgrimyfingersclutchingandcrooked,
Tightskin,anoseallbonyandhooked,
Andashaking,sharp,suspiciousway;
Hisblinkingeyeshadscarcelybrooked
Thelightofday.
StaredthePrince,forthesightwasnew;
Stared,butaskedwithoutmoreado:
Myawearytravellerlodgewithyou,
Oldfather,hereinyourlair?190
Inyourcountrytheinnsseemfew,
Andscantythefare.
Theheadturnednottohearhimspeak;
Theoldvoicewhistledasthroughaleak
(Outitcameinaquaveringsqueak):
Workforwageisabargainfit:
Iftheresaughtofminethatyouseek
Youmustworkforit.
Buriedalivefromlightandair
Thisyearisthehundredthyear,200
Ifeedmyfirewithasleeplesscare,
Watchingmypotionwaneorwax:
ElixirofLifeissimmeringthere,
Andbutonethinglacks.
Ifyourefaintolodgeherewithme,
Takethatpairofbellowsyousee
Tooheavyformyoldhandstheybe
Takethebellowsandpuffandpuff:
Whenthesteamcurlsrosyandfree
Thebrothsboiledenough.210
ThentakeyourchoiceofallIhave;
Iwillgiveyoulifeifyoucrave.
AlreadyImmildewedforthegrave,
SofirstmyselfImustdrinkmyfill:
Butalltherestmaybeyours,tosave
Whomeveryouwill.
Done,quoththePrince,andthebargainstood,
85
Firsthepiledonresinouswood,
Nextpliedthebellowsinhopefulmood;
Thinking,MyloveandIwilllive.220
IfItarry,whylifeisgood,
Andshemayforgive.
Thepotbegantobubbleandboil;
Theoldmancastinessenceandoil,
Hestirredallupwithatriplecoil
Ofgoldandsilverandironwire,
Dredgedinapinchofvirginsoil,
Andfedthefire.
Butstillthesteamcurledwaterywhite;
Nightturnedtodayanddaytonight;230
Onethinglacked,byhisfeeblesight
Unseen,unguessedbyhisfeeblemind:
Lifemightmisshim,butDeaththeblight
Wassuretofind.
Sowhenthehundredthyearwasfull
Thethreadwascutandfinishedtheschool.
Deathsnappedtheoldwornouttool,
Snappedhimshortwhilehestoodandstirred
(Thoughstiffhestoodasastiffneckedmule)
Withneveraword.240
Thusatlengththeoldcrabwasnipped.
Thedeadhandslipped,thedeadfingerdipped
Inthebrothasthedeadmanslipped,
Thatsameinstant,arosyred
Flushedthesteam,andquiveredandclipped
Roundthedeadoldhead.
Thelastingredientwassupplied
(Unlessthedeadmanmistookorlied).
UpstartedthePrince,hecastaside
Thebellowspliedthroughthetedioustrial,250
Madesurethathishosthaddied,
Andfilledaphial.
Onenightsrest,thoughthePrince:Thisdone,
ForthIstartwiththerisingsun:
86
WiththemorrowIriseandrun,
Comewhatwillofwindorofweather.
ThisdraughtofLifewhenmyBrideiswon
Welldrinktogether.
Thusthedeadmanstayedinhisgrave,
Selfchosen,thedeadmaninhiscave;260
Therehestayed,werehefoolorknave,
Orhonestseekerwhohadnotfound:
WhilethePrinceoutsidewasprompttocrave
Sleepontheground.
Ifshewatches,gobidhersleep;
Bithersleep,fortheroadissteep:
Hecansleepwhoholdethhercheap,
Sleepandwakeandsleepagain.
Lethimsow,onedayheshallreap,
Lethimsowthegrain.270
Whenthereblowsasweetgardenrose,
Letitbloomandwitherifnomanknows:
Butifoneknowswhenthesweetthingblows,
Knows,andletsitopenanddrop,
Ifbutanettlehisgardengrows
Hehathearnedthecrop.
Throughhissleepthesummonsrang,
Intohisearsitsobbedanditsang.
Slowhewokewithadrowsypang,
Shookhimselfwithoutmuchdebate,280
Turnedwherehesawgreenbrancheshang,
Startedthoughlate.
Fortheblacklandwastravelledoer,
Heshouldseethegrimlandnomore.
Afloweringcountrystretchedbefore
Hisfacewhenthelovelydaycameback:
HehuggedthephialofLifehebore,
Andresumedhistrack.
Bywillowcourseshetookhispath,
Spiedwhatanestthekingfisherhath,290
Markedthefieldsgreentoaftermath,
87
Markedwheretheredbrownfieldmouseran,
Loiteredawhileforadeepstreambath,
Yawnedforafellowman.
Uponthehillsnotasoulinview,
Inavalenotmanynorfew;
Leaves,stillleaves,andnothingnew.
Itsohforasecondmaiden,atleast,
Tobeartheflagon,andtasteittoo,
Andflavourthefeast.300
Lagginghemoved,andapttoswerve;
Lazyoflimb,butquickofnerve.
Atlengththewaterbedtookacurve,
Thedeepriversweptitsbanksidebare;
Watersstreamedfromthehillreserve
Watershere,watersthere.
Highabove,anddeepbelow,
Bursting,bubbling,swellingtheflow,
Likehilltorrentsafterthesnow,
Bubbling,gurgling,inwhirlingstrife,310
Swaying,sweeping,toandfro,
Hemustswimforhislife.
Whichway?whichway?hiseyesgrewdim
Withthedizzyingwhirlwhichwaytoswim?
Thethunderousdownshootdeafenedhim;
Halfhechokedinthelashingspray:
Lifeissweet,andthegraveisgrim
Whichway?whichway?
Aflashoflight,ashoutfromthestrand:
Thiswaythisway;hereliestheland!320
Hisphialclutchedinonedrowninghand;
Hecatchesmissescatchesarope;
Hisfeetslipontheslippingsand:
Istherelife?istherehope?
Justsaved,withoutpulseorbreath,
Scarcelysavedfromthegulpofdeath;
Laidwhereawillowshadoweth
Laidwhereaswellingturfissmooth.
88
(OBride!buttheBridegroomlingereth
Forallthysweetyouth.)330
Kindhandsdoandundo,
Kindvoiceswhisperandcoo:
IwillchafehishandsAndIAndyou
Raisehishead,puthishairaside.
(Ifmanylaugh,onewellmayrue:
Sleepon,thouBride.)
SothePrincewastendedwithcare:
Onewrungfouloozefromhisclusteredhair;
Twochafedhishands,anddidnotspare;
Butoneheldhisdroopingheadbreasthigh,340
Tillhiseyesoped,andatunaware
Theymeteyetoeye.
Oh,amoonfaceinashadowyplace,
Andalighttouchandawinsomegrace,
Andathrillingtendervoicethatsays:
Safefromwatersthatseekthesea
Coldwatersbyruggedways
Safewithme.
Whileoverheadbirdwhistlestobird,
Androundaboutplaysagamesomeherd:350
Safewithussometakeuptheword
Safewithus,dearlordandfriend:
Allthesweeteriflongdeferred
Isrestintheend.
Hadhestayedtoweighandtoscan,
Hehadbeenmoreorlessthanaman:
Hedidwhatayoungmancan,
Spokeoftoilandanarduousway
Toiltomorrow,whilegoldenran
Thesandsoftoday.360
Slippast,slipfast,
Uncountedhoursfromfirsttolast,
Manyhourstillthelastispast,
Manyhoursdwindlingtoone
Onehourwhosedieiscast,
89
Onelasthourgone.
Come,gonegoneforever
Goneasanunreturningriver
Goneastodeaththemerriestliver
Goneastheyearatthedyingfall370
Tomorrow,today,yesterday,never
Goneonceforall.
Cameatlengththestartingday,
Withlastwords,andlastwordstosay,
Withbodilesscriesfromfaraway
Chidingwailingvoicesthatrang
Likeatrumpetcalltothetugandfray;
Andthustheysang:
Istherelife?thelampburnslow;
Istherehope?thecomingisslow:380
Thepromisepromisedsolongago,
Thelongpromise,hasnotbeenkept.
Doesshelive?doesshedie?sheslumbersso
Whosoofthaswept.
Doesshelive?doesshedie?shelanguisheth
Asalilydroopingtodeath,
Asadroughtwornbirdwithfailingbreath,
Asalovelyvinewithoutastay,
Asatreewhereoftheownersaith,
Hewitdowntoday.390
StungbythatwordthePrincewasfain
Tostartonhistediousroadagain.
Hecrossedthestreamwhereafordwasplain,
Heclombtheoppositebankthoughsteep,
Andsworetohimselftostrainandattain
Erehetastedsleep.
Hugebeforehimamountainfrowned
Withfootofrockonthevalleyground,
Andheadwithsnowsincessantcrowned,
Andacloudmantleaboutitsstrength,400
Andapathwhichthewildgoathathnotfound
Initsbreadthandlength.
90
Buthewasstrongtodoanddare:
Ifahosthadwithstoodhimthere,
Hehadbravedahostwithlittlecare
Inhislustyyouthandhispride,
Toughtograpplethoughweaktosnare.
Hecomes,OBride.
Uphewentwherethegoatscarceclings,
Upwheretheeaglefoldsherwings,410
Pastthegreenlineoflivingthings,
Wherethesuncannotwarmthecold,
Uphewentasaflameenrings
Wherethereseemsnohold.
Upafissurebarrenandblack,
Tilltheeaglestireduponhistrack,
Andthecloudswereleftbehindhisback,
Uptilltheutmostpeakwaspast,
Thenhegaspedforbreathandhisstrengthfellslack;
Hepausedatlast.420
Beforehisfaceavalleyspread
Wherefatnesslaughed,wine,oil,andbread,
Whereallfruittreestheirsweetnessshed,
Whereallbirdsmadelovetotheirkind,
Wherejewelstwinkled,andgoldlayred
Andnothardtofind.
Midwaydownthemountainside
(Onitsgreenslopethepathwaswide)
Stoodahouseforaroyalbride,
Builtallofchangingopalstone,430
Theroyalpalace,tillnowdescried
Inhisdreamsalone.
Lessboldthanindaysofyore,
Doubtingnowthoughneverbefore,
Doubtinghegoesandlagsthemore:
Isthetimelate?doesthedaygrowdim?
Rose,willsheopenthecrimsoncore
Ofherhearttohim?
Takeheartofgrace!thepotionofLife
91
Maygofartowoohimawife:440
Ifshefrown,yetaloversstrife
Lightlyraisedcanbelaidagain:
Ahastywordisnevertheknife
Tocutloveintwain.
Farawaystretchedtheroyalland,
Fedbydew,byaspicewindfanned:
Lightlabourmore,andhisfootwouldstand
Onthethreshold,alllabourdone;
Easypleasurelaidathishand,
AndthedearBridewon.450
Hisslackeningstepspauseatthegate
Doesshewakeorsleep?thetimeislate
Doesshesleepnow,orwatchandwait?
Shehaswatched,shehaswaitedlong,
Watchingathwartthegoldengrate
Withapatientsong.
Flingthegoldenportalswide,
TheBridegroomcomestohispromisedBride;
Drawthegoldstiffcurtainsaside,
Letthemlookoneachothersface,460
Sheinhermeekness,heinhispride
Daywearsapace.
Dayisover,thedaythatwore.
Whatisthisthatcomesthroughthedoor,
Thefacecovered,thefeetbefore?
Thisthatcomingtakeshisbreath;
TheBridenotseen,tobeseennomore
SaveofBridegroomDeath?
Veiledfigurescarryingher
Sweepbyyetmakenostir;470
Thereisasmellofspiceandmyrrh,
Abridechantburdenedwithonename;
Thebridesongrisessteadier
Thanthetorchesflame:
Toolateforlove,toolateforjoy,
Toolate,toolate!
92
Youloiteredontheroadtoolong,
Youtrifledatthegate:
Theenchanteddoveuponherbranch
Diedwithoutamate;480
Theenchantedprincessinhertower
Slept,died,behindthegrate;
Herheartwasstarvingallthiswhile
Youmadeitwait.
Tenyearsago,fiveyearsago,
Oneyearago,
Eventhenyouhadarrivedintime,
Thoughsomewhatslow;
Thenyouhadknownherlivingface
Whichnowyoucannotknow:490
Thefrozenfountainwouldhaveleaped,
Thebudsgoneontoblow,
Thewarmsouthwindwouldhaveawaked
Tomeltthesnow.
Isshefairnowasshelies?
Onceshewasfair;
Meetqueenforanykinglyking,
Withgolddustonherhair.
Nowthesearepoppiesinherlocks,
Whitepoppiesshemustwear;500
Mustwearaveiltoshroudherface
Andthewantgraventhere:
Oristhehungerfedatlength,
Castoffthecare?
Weneversawherwithasmile
Orwithafrown;
Herbedseemedneversofttoher,
Thoughtossedofdown;
Shelittleheededwhatshewore,
Kirtle,orwreath,orgown;510
Wethinkherwhitebrowsoftenached
Beneathhercrown,
Tillsilveryhairsshowedinherlocks
Thatusedtobesobrown.
Weneverheardherspeakinhaste;
93
Hertonesweresweet,
Andmodulatedjustsomuch
Asitwasmeet:
Herheartsatsilentthroughthenoise
Andconcourseofthestreet.520
Therewasnohurryinherhands,
Nohurryinherfeet;
Therewasnoblissdrewnightoher,
Thatshemightruntogreet.
Youshouldhaveweptheryesterday,
Wastinguponherbed:
Butwhereforeshouldyouweeptoday
Thatsheisdead?
Lo,wewholoveweepnottoday,
Butcrownherroyalhead.530
Letbethesepoppiesthatwestrew,
Yourrosesaretoored:
Letbethesepoppies,notforyou
Cutdownandspread.
MAIDENSONG
Longagoandlongago,
Andlongagostill,
Theredweltthreemerrymaidens
Uponadistanthill.
OnewastallMeggan,
AndonewasdaintyMay,
ButonewasfairMargaret,
MorefairthanIcansay,
Longagoandlongago.
WhenMegganpluckedthethornyrose,10
AndwhenMaypulledthebrier,
Halfthebirdswouldswooptosee,
Halfthebeastsdrawnigher;
Halfthefishesofthestreams
Woulddartuptoadmire:
94
ButwhenMargaretpluckedaflagflower,
Orpoppyhotaflame,
Allthebeastsandallthebirds
Andallthefishescame
Toherhandmoresoftthansnow.20
StrawberryleavesandMaydew
Inbriskmorningair,
StrawberryleavesandMaydew
Makemaidensfair.
Igoforstrawberryleaves,
Meggansaidoneday:
FairMargaretcanbideathome,
Butyoucomewithme,May;
Upthehillanddownthehill,
Alongthewindingway30
YouandIareusedtogo.
Sothesetwofairsisters
Wentwithinnocentwill
Upthehillanddownagain,
Androundthehomesteadhill:
Whilethefairestsatathome,
Margaretlikeaqueen,
Likeablushrose,likethemoon
Inherheavenlysheen,
Fragrantbreathedasmilkycow40
Orfieldofblossomingbean,
Gracefulasanivybough
Borntoclingandlean;
Thusshesattosingandsew.
Whensheraisedherlustrouseyes
Abeastpeepedatthedoor;
Whenshedownwardcasthereyes
Afishgaspedonthefloor;
Whensheturnedawayhereyes
Abirdperchedonthesill,50
Warblingoutitsheartoflove,
Warblingwarblingstill,
Withpatheticpleadingslow.
LightfootMaywithMeggan
95
Soughtthechoicestspot,
Clothedwiththymealternategrass:
Then,whiledaywaxedhot,
Satateasetoplayandrest,
Agraciousrestandplay;
Theloveliestmaidensnearorfar,60
WhenMargaretwasaway,
Whosatathometosingandsew.
Sunglowflushedtheircomelycheeks,
Windplaytossedtheirhair,
Creepingthingsamongthegrass
Strokedthemhereandthere;
Megganpipedamerrynote,
Afitfulwaywardlay,
Whileshrillasbirdontopmosttwig
PipedmerryMay;70
Honeysmooththedoubleflow.
Spedaherdsmanfromthevale,
Mountinglikeaflame,
Allonfiretohearandsee,
Withfloatinglockshecame.
Lookedneithernorthnorsouth,
Neithereastnorwest,
ButsathimdownatMeggansfeet
Aslovebirdonhisnest,
Andwooedherwithasilentawe,80
Withtroublenotexpressed;
Shesangthetearsintohiseyes,
Theheartoutofhisbreast:
Sohelovedher,listeningso.
Shesangtheheartoutofhisbreast,
Thewordsoutofhistongue;
Handandfootandpulsehepaused
Tillhersongwassung.
Thenhespokeupfromhisplace
Simplewordsandtrue:90
ScantygoodshaveItogive,
Scantyskilltowoo;
ButIhaveawilltowork,
Andaheartforyou:
96
Bidmestayorbidmego.
ThenMegganmusedwithinherself:
Betterbefirstwithhim,
ThandwellwherefairerMargaretsits,
Whoshinesmybrightnessdim,
Foreversecondwhereshesits,100
HoweverfairIbe:
Iwillbeladyofhislove,
Andheshallworshipme;
Iwillbeladyofhisherds
Andstooptohisdegree,
Athomewherekidsandfatlingsgrow.
Spedashepherdfromtheheight
Headlongdowntolook,
(Whitelambsfollowed,luredbylove
Oftheirshepherdscrook):110
Heturnedneithereastnorwest,
Neithernorthnorsouth,
ButkneltrightdowntoMay,forlove
Ofhersweetsingingmouth;
Forgothisflocks,hispantingflocks
Inparchinghillsidedrouth;
Forgothimselfforwealorwoe.
Trilledhersongandswelledhersong
Withmaidencoycaprice
Inalabyrinthofthrobs,120
Pauses,cadences;
Clearnotedasadroppingbrook,
Softnotedlikethebees,
Wildnotedastheshiveringwind
Forlornthroughforesttrees:
Lovenotedlikethewoodpigeon
Whohidesherselfforlove,
Yetcannotkeephersecretsafe,
Butcoosandcoosthereof:
Thusthenotesrangloudorlow.130
Hehungbreathlessonherbreath;
Speechless,wholistenedwell;
Couldnotspeakorthinkorwish
97
Tillsilencebrokethespell.
Thenhespoke,andspreadhishands,
Pointinghereandthere:
Seemysheepandseethelambs,
Twinlambswhichtheybare.
AllmyselfIofferyou,
Allmyflocksandcare,140
Yoursweetsonghathmovedmeso.
InherflutteredheartyoungMay
Musedadubiouswhile:
Ifhelovesmeashesays
Herlipscurvedwithasmile:
WhereMargaretshineslikethesun
Ishinebutlikeamoon;
IfsisterMegganmakesherchoice
Icanmakemineassoon;
Atcockcrowweweresistermaids,150
Wemaybebridesatnoon.
SaidMeggan,Yes;MaysaidnotNo.
FairMargaretstayedaloneathome,
Awhileshesanghersong,
Awhilesatsilent,thenshethought:
Mysistersloiterlong.
Thatsultrynoonhadwanedaway,
Shadowshadwaxengreat:
Surely,shethoughtwithinherself,
Mysistersloiterlate.160
Sherose,andpeeredoutatthedoor,
Withpatienthearttowait,
Andheardadistantnightingale
Complainingofitsmate;
Thendownthegardenslopeshewalked,
Downtothegardengate,
Leanedontherailandwaitedso.
Theslopewaslightenedbyhereyes
Likesummerlightningfair,
Likerisingofthehaloedmoon170
Lightenedherglimmeringhair,
Whileherfacelightenedlikethesun
Whosedawnisrosywhite.
98
Thuscrownedwithmaidenmajesty
Shepeeredintothenight,
Lookedupthehillanddownthehill,
Tolefthandandtoright,
Flashinglikefirefliestoandfro.
Waitingthusinweariness
Shemarkedthenightingale180
Telling,ifanyonewouldheed,
Itsoldcomplainingtale.
Thenliftedshehervoiceandsang,
Answeringthebird:
Thenliftedshehervoiceandsang,
Suchnoteswereneverheard
FromanybirdwhenSpringsinblow.
Thekingofallthatcountry
Coursingfar,coursingnear,
Curbedhisamberbittedsteed,190
Coursedamaintohear;
Allhisprincesinhistrain,
Squire,andknight,andpeer,
Withhiscrownuponhishead,
Hissceptreinhishand,
DownhefellatMargaretsknees
Lordkingofallthatland,
Toherhighnessbendinglow.
Everybeastandbirdandfish
Camemusteringtothesound,200
Everymanandeverymaid
Frommilesofcountryround:
Megganonherherdsmansarm,
WithhershepherdMay,
Flocksandherdstroopedattheirheels
Alongthehillsideway;
Nofoottoofeeblefortheascent,
Notanyheadtoogrey;
Somewereswiftandnonewereslow.
SoMargaretsanghersistershome210
Intheirmarriagemirth;
Sangfreebirdsoutofthesky,
99
Beastsalongtheearth,
Sangupfishesofthedeep
Allbreathingthingsthatmove
Sangfromfarandsangfromnear
Toherlovelylove;
Sangtogetherfriendandfoe;
Sangagoldenbeardedking
Straightwaytoherfeet,220
Sanghimsilentwhereheknelt
Ineageranguishsweet.
Butwhentheclearvoicediedaway,
Whenlongestechoesdied,
Hestooduplikearoyalman
Andclaimedherforhisbride.
Sothreemaidswerewooedandwon
InabriefMaytide,
Longagoandlongago.
JESSIECAMERON
Jessie,JessieCameron,
Hearmebutthisonce,quothhe.
Goodluckgowithyou,neighborsson,
ButImnomateforyou,quothshe.
Daywasvergingtowardthenight
Therebesidethemoaningsea,
Dimnessovertookthelight
Therewherethebreakersbe.
OJessie,JessieCameron,
Ihavelovedyoulongandtrue.10
Goodluckgowithyou,neighborsson,
ButImnomateforyou.
Shewasacareless,fearlessgirl,
Andmadeheranswerplain,
Outspokenshetoearlorchurl,
Kindheartedinthemain,
Butsomewhatheedlesswithhertongue,
100
Andaptatcausingpain;
Amirthfulmaidensheandyoung,
Mostfairforblissorbane.20
Oh,longagoItoldyouso,
Itellyousotoday:
Goyouyourway,andletmego
Justmyownfreeway.
Theseasweptinwithmoanandfoam,
Quickeningthestretchofsand;
Theystoodalmostinsightofhome;
Hestrovetotakeherhand.
Oh,cantyoutakeyouranswerthen,
Andwontyouunderstand?30
Formeyourenotthemanofmen,
Iveotherplansareplanned.
YouregoodforMadge,orgoodforCis,
OrgoodforKate,maybe:
Butwhatstomethegoodofthis
Whileyourenotgoodforme?
Theystoodtogetheronthebeach,
Theytwoalone,
Andlouderwaxedhisurgentspeech,
Hispatiencealmostgone:40
Oh,saybutonekindwordtome,
Jessie,JessieCameron.
Idbetooproudtobeg,quothshe,
Andpridewasinhertone.
Andpridewasinherliftedhead,
Andinherangryeye
Andinherfoot,whichmighthavefled,
Butwouldnotfly.
Somesaythathehadgipsyblood;
Thatinhisheartwasguile:50
Yethehadgonethroughfireandflood
Onlytowinhersmile.
Somesayhisgrandamwasawitch,
AblackwitchfrombeyondtheNile,
Whokeptanimageinaniche
Andtalkedwithitthewhile.
Andbyherhutfardownthelane
101
Somesaytheywouldnotpassatnight,
Lesttheyshouldhearanunkedstrain
Orseeanunkedsight.60
Alas,forJessieCameron!
Theseacreptmoaning,moaningnigher:
Sheshouldhavehastenedtobegone,
Theseaswepthigher,breakingbyher:
Sheshouldhavehastenedtoherhome
Whileyetthewestwasflushedwithfire,
Butnowherfeetareinthefoam,
Theseafoam,sweepinghigher.
Omother,lingeratyourdoor,
Andlightyourlamptomakeitplain,70
ButJessieshecomeshomenomore,
Nomoreagain.
Theystoodtogetheronthestrand,
Theyonly,eachbyeach;
Home,herhome,wascloseathand,
Utterlyoutofreach.
Hermotherinthechimneynook
Heardastartledseagullscreech,
Butneverturnedherheadtolook
Towardsthedarkeningbeach:80
Neighbourshereandneighboursthere
Heardonescream,asifabird
Shrillyscreamingclefttheair:
Thatwasalltheyheard.
Jessieshecomeshomenomore,
Comeshomenever;
Herloversstepsoundsathisdoor
Nomoreforever.
Andboatsmaysearchuponthesea
Andsearchalongtheriver,90
Butnoneknowwherethebodiesbe:
Seawindsthatshiver,
Seabirdsthatbreasttheblast,
Seawavesswelling,
Keepthesecretfirstandlast
Oftheirdwelling.
102
Whetherthetidesohemmedthemround
Withitspitilessflow,
Thatwhentheywouldhavegonetheyfound
Nowaytogo;100
Whethershescornedhimtothelast
Withwordsflungtoandfro,
Orclungtohimwhenhopewaspast,
Nonewilleverknow:
Whetherhehelpedorhinderedher,
Threwuphislifeorlostitwell,
Thetroubledsea,forallitsstir
Findsnovoicetotell.
Onlywatchersbythedying
Havethoughttheyheardonepray110
Wordless,urgent;andreplying
Oneseemtosayhimnay:
Andwatchersbythedeadhaveheard
Awindyswellfrommilesaway,
Withsobsandscreams,butnotaword
Distinctforthemtosay:
Andwatchersoutatseahavecaught
Glimpseofapalegleamhereorthere,
Comeandgoneasquickasthought,
Whichmightbehandorhair.120
SPRINGQUIET
GonewerebuttheWinter,
ComewerebuttheSpring,
Iwouldgotoacovert
Wherethebirdssing;
Whereinthewhitethorn
Singethathrush,
Andarobinsings
Inthehollybush.
Fulloffreshscents
103
Arethebuddingboughs10
Archinghighover
Acoolgreenhouse:
Fullofsweetscents,
Andwhisperingair
Whichsayethsoftly:
Wespreadnosnare;
Heredwellinsafety,
Heredwellalone,
Withaclearstream
Andamossystone.20
Herethesunshineth
Mostshadily;
Hereisheardanecho
Ofthefarsea,
Thoughfaroffitbe.
THEPOORGHOST
Ohwhencedoyoucome,mydearfriend,tome,
Withyourgoldenhairallfallenbelowyourknee,
Andyourfaceaswhiteassnowdropsonthelea,
Andyourvoiceashollowasthehollowsea?
FromtheotherworldIcomebacktoyou,
Mylocksareuncurledwithdrippingdrenchingdew.
Youknowtheold,whilstIknowthenew:
Buttomorrowyoushallknowthistoo.
Ohnottomorrowintothedark,Ipray;
Ohnottomorrow,toosoontogoaway:10
HereIfeelwarmandwellcontentandgay:
Givemeanotheryear,anotherday.
AmIsochangedinadayandanight
Thatmineownonlyloveshrinksfrommewithfright,
104
Isfaintoturnawaytoleftorright
Andcoveruphiseyesfromthesight?
IndeedIlovedyou,mychosenfriend,
Ilovedyouforlife,butlifehasanend;
ThroughsicknessIwasreadytotend:
Butdeathmarsall,whichwecannotmend.20
IndeedIlovedyou;Iloveyouyet,
Ifyouwillstaywhereyourbedisset,
WhereIhaveplantedaviolet,
Whichthewindwaves,whichthedewmakeswet.
Lifeisgone,thenlovetooisgone,
ItwasareedthatIleantupon:
NeverdoubtIwillleaveyoualone
Andnotwakeyourattlingbonewithbone.
Igohomealonetomybed,
Dugdeepatthefootanddeepatthehead,30
Roofedinwithaloadoflead,
Warmenoughfortheforgottendead.
Butwhydidyourtearssoakthroughtheclay,
AndwhydidyoursobswakemewhereIlay?
Iwasaway,farenoughaway:
LetmesleepnowtilltheJudgmentDay.
APORTRAIT
Shegaveupbeautyinhertenderyouth,
Gaveallherhopeandjoyandpleasantways;
Shecovereduphereyeslesttheyshouldgaze
Onvanity,andchosethebittertruth.
Harshtowardsherself,towardsothersfullofruth,
Servantofservants,littleknowntopraise,
Longprayersandfaststrenchedonhernightsanddays:
Sheschooledherselftosightsandsoundsuncouth
105
Thatwiththepoorandstrickenshemightmake
Ahome,untiltheleastofallsufficed10
Herwants;herownselflearnedshetoforsake,
Countingallearthlygainbuthurtandloss.
Sowithcalmwillshechoseandborethecross
AndhatedallforloveofJesusChrist.
II
Theykneltinsilentanguishbyherbed,
Andcouldnotweep;butcalmlythereshelay.
Allpainhadlefther;andthesunslastray
Shonethroughuponher,warmingintored
Theshadycurtains.Inherheartshesaid:
Heavenopens;Ileavetheseandgoaway;20
TheBridegroomcalls,shalltheBrideseektostay?
Thenlowuponherbreastshebowedherhead.
Olilyflower,Ogemofpricelessworth,
Odovewithpatientvoiceandpatienteyes,
Ofruitfulvineamidalandofdearth,
Omaidrepletewithlovingpurities,
Thoubowedstdownthyheadwithfriendsonearth
ToraiseitwiththesaintsinParadise.
DREAMLOVE
YoungLoveliessleeping
InMaytimeoftheyear,
Amongthelilies,
Lappedinthetenderlight:
Whitelambscomegrazing,
Whitedovescomebuildingthere:
Androundabouthim
TheMaybushesarewhite.
Softmossthepillow
Foroh,asoftercheek;10
Broadleavescastshadow
Upontheheavyeyes:
106
Therewindsandwaters
Growlulledandscarcelyspeak;
Theretwilightlingers
Thelongestintheskies.
YoungLoveliesdreaming;
Butwhoshalltellthedream?
Aperfectsunlight
Onrustlingforesttips;20
Orperfectmoonlight
Uponaripplingstream;
Orperfectsilence,
Orsongofcherishedlips.
Burnodoursroundhim
Tofillthedrowsyair;
Weavesilentdances
Aroundhimtoandfro;
Foroh,inwaking
Thesightsarenotsofair,30
Andsongandsilence
Arenotlikethesebelow.
YoungLoveliesdreaming
Tillsummerdaysaregone,
Dreaminganddrowsing
Awaytoperfectsleep:
Heseesthebeauty
Sunhathnotlookedupon,
Andtastesthefountain
Unutterablydeep.40
Himperfectmusic
Dothhushuntohisrest,
Andthroughthepauses
Theperfectsilencecalms:
Oh,poorthevoices
Ofearthfromeasttowest,
Andpoorearthsstillness
Betweenherstatelypalms.
YoungLoveliesdrowsing
Awaytopoppieddeath;50
107
Coolshadowsdeepen
Acrossthesleepingface:
Sofailsthesummer
Withwarm,deliciousbreath;
Andwhathathautumn
Togiveusinitsplace?
Drawclosethecurtains
Ofbranchedevergreen;
Changecannottouchthem
Withfadingfingerssere:60
Herethefirstviolets
Perhapswillbudunseen,
Andadove,maybe,
Returntonestlehere.
TWICE
Itookmyheartinmyhand
(Omylove,Omylove),
Isaid:Letmefallorstand,
Letmeliveordie,
Butthisoncehearmespeak
(Omylove,Omylove)
Yetawomanswordsareweak;
Youshouldspeak,notI.
Youtookmyheartinyourhand
Withafriendlysmile,10
Withacriticaleyeyouscanned,
Thensetitdown,
Andsaid:Itisstillunripe,
Betterwaitawhile;
Waitwhiletheskylarkspipe,
Tillthecorngrowsbrown.
Asyousetitdownitbroke
Broke,butIdidnotwince;
Ismiledatthespeechyouspoke,
108
AtyourjudgementthatIheard:20
ButIhavenotoftensmiled
Sincethen,norquestionedsince,
Norcaredforcornflowerswild,
Norsungwiththesingingbird.
Itakemyheartinmyhand,
OmyGod,OmyGod,
Mybrokenheartinmyhand:
Thouhastseen,judgeThou.
Myhopewaswrittenonsand,
OmyGod,OmyGod:30
Nowletthyjudgementstand
Yea,judgemenow.
Thiscontemnedofaman,
Thismarredoneheedlessday,
ThishearttakeThoutoscan
Bothwithinandwithout:
Refinewithfireitsgold,
Purgethouitsdrossaway
Yea,holditinThyhold,
Whencenonecanpluckitout.40
Itakemyheartinmyhand
Ishallnotdie,butlive
BeforeThyfaceIstand;
I,forThoucallestsuch:
AllthatIhaveIbring,
AllthatIamIgive,
SmileThouandIshallsing,
Butshallnotquestionmuch.
SONGSINACORNFIELD
Asonginacornfield
Wherecornbeginstofall,
Wherereapersarereaping,
Reapingone,reapingall.
109
SingprettyLettice,
SingRachel,singMay;
OnlyMariancannotsing
Whilehersweetheartsaway.
Whereishegoneto
Andwhydoeshestay?10
Hecameacrossthegreensea
Butforaday,
Acrossthedeepgreensea
Tohelpwiththehay.
Hishairwascurlyyellow
Andhiseyesweregrey,
Helaughedamerrylaugh
Andsaidasweetsay.
Whereishegoneto
Thathecomesnothome?20
Todayortomorrow
Hesurelywillcome.
Lethimhastetojoy
Lesthelagforsorrow,
Foroneweepstoday
Whollnotweeptomorrow:
Todayshemustweep
Forgnawingsorrow,
Tonightshemaysleep
Andnotwaketomorrow.30
MaysangwithRachel
Inthewaxingwarmweather,
Letticesangwiththem,
Theysangalltogether:
Takethewheatinyourarm
Whilstdayisbroadabove,
Takethewheattoyourbosom,
Butnotafalselove.
Outinthefields
Summerheatgloweth,40
Outinthefields
Summerwindbloweth,
Outinthefields
110
Summerfriendshoweth,
Outinthefields
Summerwheatgroweth;
Butinthewinter
Whensummerheatisdead
Andsummerwindhasveered
Andsummerfriendhasfled,50
Onlysummerwheatremaineth,
Whitecakesandbread.
Takethewheat,claspthewheat
Thatsfoodformaidanddove;
Takethewheattoyourbosom,
Butnotafalsefalselove.
Asilenceoffullnoontideheat
Grewonthemattheirtoil:
Thefarmersdogwokeupfromsleep,
Thegreensnakehidhercoil.60
Wheregrassstoodthickest,birdandbeast
Soughtshadowsastheycould,
Thereapingmenandwomenpaused
Andsatdownwheretheystood;
Theyateanddrankandwererefreshed,
Forrestfromtoilisgood.
Whilethereaperstooktheirease,
Theirsickleslyingby,
Rachelsangasecondstrain,
Andsingingseemedtosigh:70
Theregoestheswallow
Couldwebutfollow!
Hastyswallowstay,
Pointusouttheway;
Lookbackswallow,turnbackswallow,stopswallow.
Therewenttheswallow
Toolatetofollow:
Lostournoteofway,
Lostourchancetoday;
Goodbyeswallow,sunnyswallow,wiseswallow.80
Aftertheswallow
111
Allsweetthingsfollow:
Allthingsgotheirway,
Onlywemuststay,
Mustnotfollow;goodbyeswallow,goodswallow.
ThenlistlessMarianraisedherhead
Amongthenoddingsheaves;
Hervoicewassweeterthanthatvoice;
Shesanglikeonewhogrieves:
Hervoicewassweeterthanitswont90
Amongthenoddingsheaves;
Allwonderedwhiletheyheardhersing
Likeonewhohopesandgrieves:
Deeperthanthehailcansmite,
Deeperthanthefrostcanbite,
Deepasleepthroughdayandnight,
Ourdelight.
Nowthysleepnopangcanbreak,
Notomorrowbidtheewake,
Notoursobswhositandache100
Forthysake.
Isitdarkorlightbelow?
Oh,butisitcoldlikesnow?
Dostthoufeelthegreenthingsgrow
Fastorslow?
Isitwarmorcoldbeneath,
Oh,butisitcoldlikedeath?
Coldlikedeath,withoutabreath,
Coldlikedeath?
Ifhecomestoday110
Hewillfindherweeping;
Ifhecomestomorrow
Hewillfindhersleeping;
Ifhecomesthenextday
Hellnotfindheratall,
Hemaytearhiscurlinghair,
Beathisbreastandcall.
112
AYEARSWINDFALLS
OnthewindofJanuary
Downflitsthesnow,
TravellingfromthefrozenNorth
Ascoldasitcanblow.
Poorrobinredbreast,
Lookwherehecomes;
Lethimintofeelyourfire,
Andtosshimofyourcrumbs.
OnthewindinFebruary
Snowflakesfloatstill,10
Halfinclinedtoturntorain,
Nipping,dripping,chill.
Thenthethawsswellthestreams,
Andswollenriversswellthesea:
Ifthewintereverends
Howpleasantitwillbe!
InthewindofwindyMarch
Thecatkinsdropdown,
Curly,caterpillarlike,
Curiousgreenandbrown.20
Withconcourseofnestbuildingbirds
Andleafbudsbytheway,
Webegintothinkofflowers
Andlifeandnutssomeday.
WiththegustsofApril
Richfruittreeblossomsfall,
Onthehedgedinorchardgreen,
Fromthesouthernwall.
Appletreesandpeartrees
Shedpetalswhiteorpink,30
Plumtreesandpeachtrees;
Whilesharpshowerssinkandsink.
LittlebringstheMaybreeze
Besidepurescentofflowers,
Whileallthingswaxandnothingwanes
Inlengtheningdaylighthours.
113
Acrossthehyacinthbeds
Thewindlagswarmandsweet,
Acrossthehawthorntops,
Acrossthebladesofwheat.40
InthewindofsunnyJune
Thrivestheredrosecrop,
Everydayfreshblossomsblow
Whilethefirstleavesdrop;
Whiteroseandyellowrose
Andmossrosechoicetofind,
Andthecottagecabbagerose
Notonewhitbehind.
OntheblastofscorchedJuly
Drivesthepeltinghail,50
Fromthunderouslightningclouds,thatblot
Blueheavengrownluridpale.
Weedywavesaretossedashore,
Seathingsstrangetosight
Gaspuponthebarrenshore
Andfadeawayinlight.
IntheparchingAugustwind
Cornfieldsbowthehead,
Shelteredinroundvalleydepths,
Onlowhillsoutspread.60
Earlyleavesdroploiteringdown
Weightlessonthebreeze,
Firstfruitsoftheyearsdecay
Fromthewitheringtrees.
InbriskwindofSeptember
Theheavyheadedfruits
Shakeupontheirbendingboughs
Anddropfromtheshoots;
Someglowgoldeninthesun,
Someshowgreenandstreaked,70
Somesetforthapurplebloom,
Someblushrosycheeked.
InstrongblastofOctober
Attheequinox,
114
Stirredupinhishollowbed
Broadoceanrocks;
Plungetheshipsonhisbosom,
Leapsandplungesthefoam,
Itsoh!formotherssonsatsea,
Thattheyweresafeathome.80
InslackwindofNovember
Thefogformsandshifts;
Alltheworldcomesoutagain
Whenthefoglifts.
Loosenedfromtheirsaplesstwigs
Leavesdropwitheverygust;
Drifting,rustling,outofsight
Inthedampordust.
Lastofall,December,
Theyearssandsnearlyrun,90
Speedsontheshortestday,
Curtailsthesun;
Withitsbleakrawwind
Laysthelastleaveslow,
Bringsbackthenightlyfrosts,
Bringsbackthesnow.
THEQUEENOFHEARTS
Howcomesit,Flora,that,wheneverwe
Playcardstogether,youinvariably,
Howeverthepackparts,
StillholdtheQueenofHearts?
Ivescannedyouwithascrutinizinggaze,
Resolvedtofathomtheseyoursecretways:
But,siftthemasIwill,
Yourwaysaresecretstill.
Icutandshuffle;shuffle,cut,again;
Butallmycutting,shuffling,provesinvain:10
115
Vainhope,vainforethoughttoo;
TheQueenstillfallstoyou.
Idroppedheronce,prepense;but,erethedeal
Wasdealt,yourinstinctseemedherlosstofeel:
Thereshouldbeonecardmore,
Yousaid,andsearchedthefloor.
Icheatedonce;Imadeaprivatenotch
InHeartQueensback,andkeptalynxeyedwatch;
Yetsuchanotherback
Deceivedmeinthepack:20
TheQueenofClubsassumedbyartsunknown
Animitativedintthatseemedmyown;
Thisnotch,notofmydoing,
Misledmetomyruin.
Itbafflesmetopuzzleouttheclue,
Whichmustbeskill,orcraft,orluckinyou:
Unless,indeed,itbe
Naturalaffinity.
ONEDAY
Iwilltellyouwhentheymet:
InthelimpiddaysofSpring;
Elderboughswerebuddingyet,
Oakenboughslookedwintrystill,
Butprimroseandveinedviolet
Inthemossfulturfwereset,
Whilemeetingbirdsmadehastetosing
Andbuildwithrightgoodwill.
Iwilltellyouwhentheyparted:
WhenplenteousAutumnsheaveswerebrown,10
Thentheypartedheavyhearted;
Thefullrejoicingsunlookeddown
Asgrandasinthedaysbefore;
116
Onlytheyhadlostacrown;
Onlytothemthosedaysofyore
Couldcomebacknevermore.
Whenshalltheymeet?Icannottell,
Indeed,whentheyshallmeetagain,
ExceptsomedayinParadise:
Forthistheywait,onewaitsinpain.20
Beyondtheseaofdeathlovelies
Forever,yesterday,today;
Angelsshallaskthem,Isitwell?
Andtheyshallanswer,Yea.
ABIRDSEYEVIEW
Croak,croak,croak,
ThustheRavenspoke,
Perchedonhiscrookedtree
Ashoarseashoarsecouldbe.
Shunhimandfearhim,
LesttheBridegroomhearhim;
Scouthimandrouthim
Withhisominouseyeabouthim.
Yet,Croak,croak,croak,
Stilltolledfromtheoak;10
Fromthatfatalblackbird,
Whetherheardorunheard:
Oshipuponthehighseas,
Freightedwithlivesandspices,
Sink,Oship,croakedtheRaven:
LettheBridemounttoheaven.
Inafarforeignland,
Uponthewaveedgedsand,
Somefriendsgazewistfully
Acrosstheglitteringsea.20
Ifwecouldclaspoursister,
Threesay,nowwehavemissedher!
117
Ifwecouldkissourdaughter!
Twosighacrossthewater.
Oh,theshipsailsfast
Withsilkenflagsatthemast,
Andthehomewindblowssoft;
ButaRavensitsaloft,
Chucklingandchoking,
Croaking,croaking,croaking:30
Letthebeaconfireblazehigher;
Bridegroom,watch;theBridedrawsnigher.
Onaslopedsandybeach,
Whichthespringtidebillowsreach,
Standawatchfulthrong
Whohavehopedandwaitedlong:
Fieonthisship,thattarries
Withthepricelessfreightitcarries.
Thetimeseemslongandlonger:
Olanguidwind,waxstronger;40
WhilsttheRavenperchedatease
Stillcroaksanddoesnotcease,
Onemonotonousnote
Tolledfromhisironthroat:
Nofather,nomother,
ButIhaveasablebrother:
Heseeswhereoceanflowsto,
Andheknowswhatheknows,too.
Adayandanight
Theykeptwatchwornandwhite;50
Anightandaday
Fortheswiftshiponitsway:
FortheBrideandhermaidens
Clearchimesthebridalcadence
Forthetallshipthatnever
Hoveinsightforever.
Oneithershore,some
Standingriefloudordumb
Asthedreadfuldread
Growscertainthoughunsaid.60
118
Forlaughterthereisweeping,
Andwakinginsteadofsleeping,
Andadesperatesorrow
Morrowaftermorrow.
Oh,whoknowsthetruth,
Howsheperishedinheryouth,
Andlikeaqueenwentdown
Paleinherroyalcrown:
Howshewentuptoglory
Fromtheseafoamchillandhoary,70
Fromtheseadepthblackandriven
TothecalmthatisinHeaven?
Theywentdown,allthecrew,
Thesilksandspicestoo,
Thegreatonesandthesmall,
Oneandall,oneandall.
Wasitthroughstressofweather,
Quicksands,rocks,oralltogether?
OnlytheRavenknowsthis,
Andhewillnotdisclosethis.80
Afteradayandyear
Thebridalbellschimeclear;
Afterayearandaday
TheBridegroomisbraveandgay:
Loveissound,faithisrotten;
TheoldBrideisforgotten:
TwoominousRavensonly
Remember,blackandlonely.
LIGHTLOVE
Oh,sadthylotbeforeIcame,
ButsadderwhenIgo;
Mypresencebutaflashofflame,
Atransitoryglow
Betweentwobarrenwasteslikesnow.
119
WhatwiltthoudowhenIamgone,
Wherewiltthourest,mydear?
Forcoldthybedtorestupon,
Andcoldthefallingyear
Whosewitheredleavesarelostandsere.10
Shehushedthebabyatherbreast,
Sherockeditonherknee:
AndIwillrestmylonelyrest,
Warmedwiththethoughtofthee,
Restlulledtorestbymemory.
Shehushedthebabywithherkiss,
Shehusheditwithherbreast:
Isdeathsosaddermuchthanthis
Suredeaththatbuildsanest
Forthosewhoelsewherecannotrest?20
Oh,sadthynote,mymatelessdove,
Withtendernestlingcold;
Buthastthouneeranotherlove
Leftfromthedaysofold,
Tobuildthynestofsilkandgold,
Towarmthypalenesstoablush
WhenIamfaraway
Towarmthycoldnesstoaflush,
AndturntheebacktoMay,
Andturnthytwilightbacktoday?30
Shedidnotanswerhimagain,
Butleanedherfaceaside,
Wearywiththepangofshameandpain,
Andsorewithwoundedpride:
Heknewhisverysoulhadlied.
Shestrainedhisbabyinherarms,
Hisbabytoherheart:
Evenletitgo,thelovethatharms:
Wetwainwillneverpart;
Mineown,hisown,howdearthouart.40
Nowneverteazeme,tendereyed,
Sighvoiced,hesaidinscorn:
Fornighathandtherebloomsabride,
Mybridebeforethemorn;
120
Ripebloomingshe,asthouforlorn.
Ripebloomingshe,myrose,mypeach;
Shewoosmedayandnight:
Iwatchhertrembleinmyreach;
Shereddens,mydelight,
Sheripens,reddensinmysight.50
Andisshelikeasunlitrose?
AmIlikewitheredleaves?
Hastewherethyspicedgardenblows:
ButinbareAutumneves
Wiltthouhavestoreofharvestsheaves?
Thouleavestlove,truelovebehind,
Toseekaloveastrue;
Go,seekinhaste:butwiltthoufind?
Changenewagainfornew;
Pluckup,enjoyyea,trampletoo.60
Alasforher,poorfadedrose,
Alasforherher,likeme,
Castdownandtrampledinthesnows.
Likethee?nay,notlikethee:
Sheleans,butfromaguardedtree.
Farewell,anddreamaslongago,
Beforeweevermet:
Farewell;myswiftpacedhorseseemsslow.
Sheraisedhereyes,notwet
Buthard,toHeaven:DoesGodforget?70
ADREAM
Sonnet
Onceinadream(foronceIdreamedofyou)
Westoodtogetherinanopenfield;
Aboveourheadstwoswiftwingedpigeonswheeled,
Sportingateaseandcourtingfullinview.
Whenloftierstillabroadeningdarknessflew,
Downswooping,andaravenoushawkrevealed;
121
Tooweaktofight,toofondtofly,theyyield;
Sofarewelllifeandloveandpleasuresnew.
Thenastheirplumesfellflutteringtotheground,
Theirsnowwhiteplumagefleckedwithcrimsondrops,
Iwept,andthoughtIturnedtowardsyoutoweep:
Butyouweregone;whilerustlinghedgerowtops
Bentinawindwhichboretomeasound
Offaroffpiteousbleatoflambsandsheep.
ARINGPOSY
JessandJillareprettygirls,
Plumpandwelltodo,
Inacloudofwindycurls:
YetIknowwho
Lovesmemorethancurlsorpearls.
Imnotpretty,notabit
Thinandsallowpale;
WhenItrudgealongthestreet
Idontneedaveil:
YetIhaveonefancyhit.
10
JessandJillcantrillandsing
Withaflutelikevoice,
Danceaslightasbirdonwing,
Laughforcarelessjoys:
YetitsIwhowearthering.
JessandJillwillmatesomeday,
Surely,surely:
RipenontoJunethroughMay,
Whilethesunshinesmaketheirhay,
Slackenstepsdemurely:
20
YeteventhereIleadtheway.
122
BEAUTYISVAIN
Whilerosesaresored,
Whileliliesaresowhite,
Shallawomanexaltherface
Becauseitgivesdelight?
Shesnotsosweetasarose,
Alilysstraighterthanshe,
Andifshewereasredorwhite
Shedbebutoneofthree.
Whethersheflushinlovessummer
Orinitswintergrowpale,10
Whethersheflauntherbeauty
Orhideitawayinaveil,
Besheredorwhite,
Andstandsheerectorbowed,
Timewillwintheraceherunswithher
Andhideherawayinashroud.
LADYMAGGIE
YoumustnotcallmeMaggie,youmustnotcallmeDear,
ForImLadyoftheManornowstatelytosee;
Andiftherecomesababe,astheremaysomehappyyear,
Twillbelittlelordorladyatmyknee.
Oh,butwhatailsyou,mysailorcousinPhil,
Thatyoushakeandturnwhitelikeacockcrowghost?
YoureaswhiteasIturnedoncedownbythemill,
Whenonetoldmeyouandshipandcrewwerelost:
Philipmyplayfellow,whenwewereboyandgirl
(ItwastheMillersNancytoldittome),10
Philipwiththemerrylifeinlipandcurl,
Philipmyplayfellowdrownedinthesea!
IthoughtIshouldhavefainted,butIdidnotfaint;
123
Istoodstunnedatthemoment,scarcelysad,
TillIraisedmywailofdesolatecomplaint
Foryou,mycousin,brother,allIhad.
TheysaidIlookedsopalesomesaysofair
Mylordstoppedinpassingtosoothemebacktolife:
IknowImissedaringletfrommyhair
Nextmorning;andnowIamhiswife.20
Lookatmygown,Philip,andlookatmyring,
Imallcrimsonandgoldfromtoptotoe:
AlldaylongIsitinthesunandsing,
Whereinthesunredrosesblushandblow.
AndImtheroseofrosessaysmylord;
AndtohimImmorethanthesuninthesky,
WhileIholdhimfastwiththegoldencord
Ofacurl,withtheeyelashofaneye.
Hismothersaidfie,andhissisterscriedshame,
Hishighbornladiescriedshamefromtheirplace:30
Theysaidfiewhentheyonlyheardmyname,
Butfellsilentwhentheysawmyface.
AmIsofair,Philip?Philip,didyouthink
Iwassofairwhenweplayedboyandgirl,
Whereblueforgetmenotsbloomedonthebrink
Ofourstreamwhichthemillwheelsentawhirl?
IfIwasfairthensureImfairernow,
Sittingwhereascoreofservantsstand,
Withacoronetonhighdaysformybrow
Andalmostasceptreformyhand.40
Yourebutasailor,Philip,weatherbeatenbrown,
Astrangeronlandandathomeonthesea,
Coastingasbestyoumayfromtowntotown:
Coastingalongdoyouoftenthinkofme?
Imagreatladyinashelteredbower,
Withhandsgrownwhitethroughhavingnoughttodo:
YetsometimesIthinkofyouhourafterhour
TillInighwishmyselfachildwithyou.
124
WHATWOULDIGIVE?
WhatwouldIgiveforaheartoffleshtowarmmethrough,
InsteadofthisheartofstoneicecoldwhateverIdo;
Hardandcoldandsmall,ofallheartstheworstofall.
WhatwouldIgiveforwords,ifonlywordswouldcome;
Butnowinitsmiserymyspirithasfallendumb:
Oh,merryfriends,goyourownway,Ihaveneverawordtosay.
WhatwouldIgivefortears,notsmilesbutscaldingtears,
Towashtheblackmarkclean,andtothawthefrostofyears,
Towashthestainingrainandtomakemecleanagain.
THEBOURNE
Underneaththegrowinggrass,
Underneaththelivingflowers,
Deeperthanthesoundofshowers:
Thereweshallnotcountthehours
Bytheshadowsastheypass.
Youthandhealthwillbebutvain,
Beautyreckonedofnoworth:
Thereaverylittlegirth
Canholdroundwhatoncetheearth
Seemedtoonarrowtocontain.
SUMMER
Winteriscoldhearted
Springisyeaandnay,
Autumnisaweathercock
Blowneveryway:
125
Summerdaysforme
Wheneveryleafisonitstree;
WhenRobinsnotabeggar,
AndJennyWrensabride,
Andlarkshangsinging,singing,singing,
Overthewheatfieldswide,10
Andanchoredliliesride,
Andthependulumspider
Swingsfromsidetoside,
Andblueblackbeetlestransactbusiness,
Andgnatsflyinahost,
Andfurrycaterpillarshasten
Thatnotimebelost,
Andmothsgrowfatandthrive,
Andladybirdsarrive.
Beforegreenapplesblush,20
Beforegreennutsembrown,
Why,onedayinthecountry
Isworthamonthintown;
Isworthadayandayear
Ofthedusty,musty,laglastfashion
Thatdaysdroneelsewhere.
AUTUMN
IdwellaloneIdwellalone,alone,
Whilstfullmyriverflowsdowntothesea,
Gildedwithflashingboats
Thatbringnofriendtome:
Olovesongs,gurglingfromahundredthroats,
Olovepangs,letmebe.
Fairfallthefreightedboatswhichgoldandstone
Andspicesbeartosea:
Slim,gleamingmaidensswelltheirmellownotes,
Lovepromising,entreating10
126
Ah!sweet,butfleeting
Beneaththeshivering,snowwhitesails.
Hush!thewindflagsandfails
Hush!theywillliebecalmedinsightofstrand
Sightofmystrand,whereIdodwellalone;
Theirsongswakesingingechoesinmyland
Theycannothearmemoan.
Onelatest,solitaryswallowflies
Acrossthesea,roughautumntempesttossed,
Poorbird,shallitbelost?20
Droppeddownintothisuncongenialsea,
Withnokindeyes
Towatchitwhileitdies,
Unguessed,uncaredfor,free:
Setfreeatlast,
Theshortpangpast,
Insleep,indeath,indreamlesssleeplockedfast.
Mineavenueisallagrowthofoaks,
Somerentbythunderstrokes,
Somerustlingleavesandacornsinthebreeze;30
Fairfallmyfertiletrees,
Thatreartheirgoodlyheads,andliveatease.
Aspiderswebblocksallmineavenue;
Hecatchesdownandfoolishpaintedflies
Thatspiderwaryandwise.
Eachmornithangsarainbowstrungwithdew
Betwixtboughsgreenwithsap,
Sofair,fewcreaturesguessitisatrap:
Iwillnotmartheweb,
ThoughsadIamtoseethesmalllivesebb.40
Itshakesmytreesshakeforawindisroused
Incavernwhereithoused:
Eachwhiteandquiveringsail,
Ofboatsamongthewaterleaves
Hollowsandstrainsinthefullthroatedgale:
Eachmaidensingsagain
Eachlanguidmaiden,whomthecalm
Hadlulledtosleepwithrestandspiceandbalm
Milesdownmyrivertothesea
127
Theyfloatandwane,
50
Longmilesawayfromme.
Perhapstheysay:Shegrieves,
Uplifted,likeabeacon,onhertower.
Perhapstheysay:Onehour
More,andwedanceamongthegoldensheaves.
Perhapstheysay:Onehour
More,andwestand,
Facetoface,handinhand;
Makehaste,Oslackgale,tothelookedforland!
Mytreesarenotinflower,
60
Ihavenobower,
Andgustycreaksmytower,
Andlonesome,verylonesome,ismystrand.
THEGHOSTSPETITION
Theresafootstepcoming:lookoutandsee,
Theleavesarefalling,thewindiscalling;
Noonecomethacrossthelea.
Theresafootstepcoming;Osister,look.
Therippleflashes,thewhitefoamdashes;
Noonecomethacrossthebrook.
Buthepromisedthathewouldcome:
Tonight,tomorrow,injoyorsorrow,
Hemustkeephisword,andmustcomehome.
Forhepromisedthathewouldcome:10
Hiswordwasgiven;fromearthorheaven,
Hemustkeephisword,andmustcomehome.
Gotosleep,mysweetsisterJane;
Youcanslumber,whoneednotnumber
Hourafterhour,indoubtandpain.
128
Ishallsithereawhile,andwatch;
Listening,hoping,foronehandgroping
Indeepshadowtofindthelatch.
Afterthedark,andbeforethelight,
Onelaysleeping;andonesatweeping, 20
Whohadwatchedandweptthewearynight.
Afterthenight,andbeforetheday,
Onelaysleeping;andonesatweeping
Watching,weepingforoneaway.
Therecameafootstepclimbingthestair;
Someonestandingoutonthelanding
Shookthedoorlikeapuffofair
Shookthedoor,andinhepassed.
Didheenter?Intheroomcentre
Stoodherhusband:thedoorshutfast. 30
ORobin,butyouarecold
Chilledwiththenightdew:solilywhiteyou
Looklikeastraylambfromourfold.
ORobin,butyouarelate:
Comeandsitnearmesithereandcheerme.
(Bluetheflameburntinthegrate.)
Laynotdownyourheadonmybreast:
Icannotholdyou,kindwife,norfoldyou
Intheshelterthatyoulovebest.
Feelnotaftermyclaspinghand:
40
Iambutashadow,comefromthemeadow
Wheremanylie,butnotreecanstand.
Wearetreeswhichhaveshedtheirleaves:
Ourheadslielowthere,butnotearsflowthere;
OnlyIgrieveformywifewhogrieves.
Icouldrestifyouwouldnotmoan
Hourafterhour;Ihavenopower
ToshutmyearswhereIliealone.
129
Icouldrestifyouwouldnotcry;
Buttheresnosleepingwhileyousitweeping50
Watching,weepingsobitterly.
Woesme!woesme!forthisIhaveheard.
Ohnightofsorrow!ohblacktomorrow!
Isitthusthatyoukeepyourword?
Oyouwhousedsotoshelterme
Warmfromtheleastwindwhy,nowtheeastwind
Iswarmerthanyou,whomIquaketosee.
Omyhusbandoffleshandblood,
ForwhommymotherIleft,andbrother,
AndallIhad,accountingitgood,
60
Whatdoyoudothere,underground,
Inthedarkhollow?Imfaintofollow.
Whatdoyoudothere?whathaveyoufound?
WhatIdothereImustnottell:
ButIhaveplenty:kindwife,contentye:
Itiswellwithusitiswell.
Tenderhandhathmadeournest;
Ourfearisended,ourhopeisblended
Withpresentpleasure,andwehaverest.
Oh,butRobin,Imfaintocome,
70
Ifyourpresentdaysaresopleasant;
Formydaysaresowearisome.
YetIlldrymytearsforyoursake:
WhyshouldIteaseyou,whocannotpleaseyou
AnymorewiththepainsItake?
130
MEMORY
Inurseditinmybosomwhileitlived,
Ihiditinmyheartwhenitwasdead;
InjoyIsatalone,evensoIgrieved
Aloneandnothingsaid.
Ishutthedoortofacethenakedtruth,
IstoodaloneIfacedthetruthalone,
Strippedbareofselfregardorformsorruth
Tillfirstandlastwereshown.
Itooktheperfectbalancesandweighed;
Noshakingofmyhanddisturbedthepoise;10
Weighed,founditwanting:notawordIsaid,
Butsilentmademychoice.
NoneknowthechoiceImade;Imakeitstill.
NoneknowthechoiceImadeandbrokemyheart,
Breakingmineidol:Ihavebracedmywill
Once,chosenforoncemypart.
Ibrokeitatablow,Ilaiditcold,
Crushedinmydeepheartwhereitusedtolive.
Myheartdiesinchbyinch;thetimegrowsold,
GrowsoldinwhichIgrieve.
20
II
Ihavearoomwhereintonooneenters
SaveImyselfalone:
Theresitsablessedmemoryonathrone,
Theremylifecentres.
Whilewintercomesandgoesohtediouscomer!
Andwhileitsnipwindblows;
Whilebloomthebloodlesslilyandwarmrose
Oflavishsummer.
Ifanyshouldforceentrancehemightseethere
Oneburiedyetnotdead,
30
131
BeforewhosefaceInomorebowmyhead
Orbendmykneethere;
Butofteninmywornlifesautumnweather
Iwatchtherewithcleareyes,
AndthinkhowitwillbeinParadise
Whenweretogether.
AROYALPRINCESS
I,aprincess,kingdescended,deckedwithjewels,gilded,drest,
Wouldratherbeapeasantwithherbabyatherbreast,
ForallIshinesolikethesun,andampurplelikethewest.
Twoandtwomyguardsbehind,twoandtwobefore,
Twoandtwooneitherhand,theyguardmeevermore;
Me,poordove,thatmustnotcooeaglethatmustnotsoar.
Allmyfountainscastupperfumes,allmygardensgrow
Scentedwoodsandforeignspices,withallflowersinblow
Thatarecostly,outofseasonastheseasonsgo.
Allmywallsarelostinmirrors,whereuponItrace10
Selftorighthand,selftolefthand,selfineveryplace,
Selfsamesolitaryfigure,selfsameseekingface.
ThenIhaveanivorychairhightositupon,
Almostlikemyfatherschair,whichisanivorythrone;
ThereIsitupliftandupright,thereIsitalone.
Alonebyday,alonebynight,alonedayswithoutend;
Myfatherandmymothergivemetreasures,searchandspend
Omyfather!Omymother!haveyouneerafriend?
AsIamaloftyprincess,somyfatheris
Aloftyking,accomplishedinallkinglysubtilties,20
Holdinginhisstrongrighthandworldkingdomsbalances.
Hehasquarrelledwithhisneighbours,hehasscourgedhisfoes;
132
Vassalcountsandprincesfollowwherehispennongoes,
Longdescendedvaliantlordswhomthevultureknows,
Onwhosetrackthevultureswoops,whentheyrideinstate
Tobreakthestrengthofarmiesandtoppledownthegreat:
Eachofthesemycourteousservant,noneofthesemymate.
Myfathercountinguphisstrengthsetsdownwithequalpen
Somanyheadofcattle,headofhorses,headofmen;
Theseforslaughter,theseforbreeding,withthehowandwhen.30
Sometoworkonroads,canals;sometomanhisships;
Sometosmartinminesbeneathsharpoverseerswhips;
Sometotrapfurbeastsinlandswhereutmostwinternips.
Onceitcameintomyheart,andwhelmedmelikeaflood,
Thatthesetooaremenandwomen,humanfleshandblood;
Men with hearts and men with souls, though trodden down like
mud.
Ourfeastingwasnotgladthatnight,ourmusicwasnotgay:
OnmymothersgracefulheadImarkedathreadofgrey,
Myfatherfrowningatthefareseemedeverydishtoweigh.
Isatbesidethemsoleprincessinmyexaltedplace,40
Myladiesandmygentlemenstoodbymeonthedais:
AmirrorshowedmeIlookoldandhaggardintheface;
Itshowedmethatmyladiesallarefairtogazeupon,
Plump,plenteoushaired,toeveryonelovessecretloreisknown,
Theylaughbyday,theysleepbynight;ahme,whatisathrone?
Thesingingmenandwomensangthatnightasusual,
Thedancersdancedinpairsandsets,butmusichadafall,
Amelancholywindyfallasatafuneral.
Amidthetossoftorchestomychamberbackweswept;
Myladiesloosedmygoldenchain;meantimeIcouldhavewept50
Tothinkofsomeingallingchainswhethertheywakedorslept.
Itookmybathofscentedmilk,delicatelywaitedon,
Theyburnedsweetthingsformydelight,cedarandcinnamon,
Theylitmyshadedsilverlamp,andleftmetherealone.
133
Adaywentby,aweekwentby.OnedayIhearditsaid:
Menareclamouring,women,children,clamouringtobefed;
Menlikefamisheddogsarehowlinginthestreetsforbread.
Sotwowhisperedbymydoor,notthinkingIcouldhear,
Vulgarnakedtruth,ungarnishedforaroyalear;
Fitforcoopinginthebackground,nottostalksonear.60
ButIstrainedmyutmostsensetocatchthistruth,andmark:
Therearefamiliesoutgrazinglikecattleinthepark.
Apairofpeasantsmustbesavedevenifwebuildanark.
Amerryjest,amerrylaugh,eachstrolleduponhisway;
Onewasmypage,aladIrearedandborewithdaybyday;
OnewasmyyoungestmaidassweetandwhiteascreaminMay.
Otherfootstepsfollowedsoftlywithaweightiertramp;
Voicessaid:Pickedsoldiershavebeensummonedfromthecamp
Toquellthesebasebornruffianswhomakefreetohowlandstamp.
Howlandstamp?oneanswered:Theymadefreetohurlastone70
Attheministersstatecoach,wellaimedandstoutlythrown.
Theres work then for the soldiers, for this rank crop must be
mown.
OneIsaw,apooroldfoolwithashesonhishead,
Whimperingbecauseagirlhadsnatchedhiscrustofbread:
Thenhedropped;whensomeoneraisedhim,itturnedouthewas
dead.
Afterusthedeluge,wasretortedwithalaugh:
Ifbreadsthestaffoflife,theymustwalkwithoutastaff.
WhileIvealoaftheyrewelcometomyblessingandthechaff.
Thesepassed.Theking:standup.Saidmyfatherwithasmile:
Daughtermine,yourmothercomestositwithyouawhile,80
Shessadtoday,andwhobutyouhersadnesscanbeguile?
Hetooleftme.ShallItouchmyharpnowwhileIwait,
(Ihearthemdoublingguardbelowbeforeourpalacegate)
OrshallIworkthelastgoldstitchintomyveilofstate;
Orshallmywomanstandandreadsomeunimpassionedscene,
134
Theresmusicofalullingsortinwordsthatpausebetween;
OrshallshemerelyfanmewhileIwaithereforthequeen?
AgainIcaughtmyfathersvoiceinsharpwordofcommand:
Charge!aclashofsteel:Chargeagain,therebelsstand.
Smite and spare not, hand to hand; smite and spare not, hand to
hand.
90
Thereswelledatumultatthegate,highvoiceswaxinghigher;
Aflashofredreflectedlightlitthecathedralspire;
Iheardacryforfaggots,thenIheardayellforfire.
Sit and roast there with your meat, sit and bake there with your
bread,
Youwhosattoseeusstarve,oneshriekingwomansaid:
Sitonyourthroneandroastwithyourcrownuponyourhead.
Nay,thisthingwillIdo,whilemymothertarrieth,
Iwilltakemyfinespungold,butnottosewtherewith,
Iwilltakemygoldandgems,andrainbowfanandwreath;
Witharansominmylap,akingsransominmyhand,100
Iwillgodowntothispeople,willstandfacetoface,willstand
Wheretheycurseking,queen,andprincessofthiscursedland.
Theyshalltakealltobuythembread,takeallIhavetogive;
I,ifIperish,perish;theytodayshalleatandlive;
I,ifIperish,perish;thatsthegoalIhalfconceive:
Oncetospeakbeforetheworld,rendbaremyheartandshow
ThelessonIhavelearnedwhichisdeath,islife,toknow.
I,ifIperish,perish;inthenameofGodIgo.
SHALLIFORGET?
ShallIforgetonthissideofthegrave?
Ipromisenothing:youmustwaitandsee
Patientandbrave.
(Omysoul,watchwithhimandhewithme.)
135
ShallIforgetinpeaceofParadise?
Ipromisenothing:follow,friend,andsee
Faithfulandwise.
(Omysoul,leadthewayhewalkswithme.)
VANITYOFVANITIES
Sonnet
Ah,woeismeforpleasurethatisvain,
Ah,woeismeforglorythatispast:
Pleasurethatbringethsorrowatthelast,
Glorythatatthelastbringethnogain!
Sosaiththesinkingheart;andsoagain
Itshallsaytillthemightyangelblast
Isblown,makingthesunandmoonaghast
Andshoweringdownthestarslikesuddenrain.
Andevermoremenshallgofearfully
Bendingbeneaththeirweightofheaviness;
Andancientmenshallliedownwearily,
Andstrongmenshallriseupinweariness;
Yea,eventheyoungshallanswersighingly
Sayingonetoanother:Howvainitis!
L.E.L.
Whoseheartwasbreakingforalittlelove.
DownstairsIlaugh,Isportandjestwithall;
Butinmysolitaryroomabove
Iturnmyfaceinsilencetothewall;
Myheartisbreakingforalittlelove.
Thoughwinterfrostsaredone,
Andbirdspaireveryone,
Andleavespeepout,forspringtideisbegun.
Ifeelnospring,whilespringiswellnighblown,
136
Ifindnonest,whilenestsareinthegrove:
Woesmeformineownheartthatdwellsalone,10
Myheartthatbreakethforalittlelove.
Whilegoldeninthesun
Rivuletsriseandrun,
Whileliliesbud,forspringtideisbegun.
Alllove,areloved,saveonlyI;theirhearts
Beatwarmwithloveandjoy,beatfullthereof:
Theycannotguess,whoplaythepleasantparts,
Whilebeehiveswakeandwhirr,
Andrabbitthinshisfur,
20
Inlivingspringthatsetstheworldastir.
Ideckmyselfwithskillsandjewelry,
Iplumemyselflikeanymateddove:
Theypraisemyrustlingshow,andneversee
Whilesproutsgreenlavender
Withrosemaryandmyrrh,
Forinquickspringthesapisallastir.
Perhapssomesaintsingloryguessthetruth,
Perhapssomeangelsreaditastheymove,30
Andcryonetoanotherfullofruth,
Herheartisbreakingforalittlelove.
Thoughotherthingshavebirth,
Andleapandsingformirth,
Whenspringtimewakesandclothesandfeedstheearth.
Yetsaithasaint:Takepatienceforthyscathe;
Yetsaithanangel:Wait,forthoushaltprove
Truebestislast,truelifeisbornofdeath,
Othou,heartbrokenforalittlelove.
Thenloveshallfilltheygirth,
40
Andlovemakefatthydearth,
Whennewspringbuildsnewheavenandcleannewearth.
137
LIFEANDDEATH
Lifeisnotsweet.Onedayitwillbesweet
Toshutoureyesanddie:
Norfeelthewildflowersblow,norbirdsdartby
Withflittingbutterfly,
Norgrassgrowlongaboveourheadsandfeet,
Norhearthehappylarkthatsoarsskyhigh,
Norsighthatspringisfleetandsummerfleet,
Normarkthewaxingwheat,
Norknowwhositsinouraccustomedseat.
Lifeisnotgood.Onedayitwillbegood10
Todie,thenliveagain;
Tosleepmeanwhile:sonottofeelthewane
Ofshrunkleavesdroppinginthewood,
Norhearthefoamylashingofthemain,
Normarktheblackenedbeanfields,norwherestood
Richranksofgoldengrain
Onlydeadrefusestubbleclothetheplain:
Asleepfromrisk,asleepfrompain.
BIRDORBEAST?
Didanybirdcomeflying
AfterAdamandEve,
Whenthedoorwasshutagainstthem
Andtheysatdowntogrieve?
IthinknotEvespeacock
Splendidtosee,
AndIthinknotAdamseagle;
Butadovemaybe.
Didanybeastcomepushing
Throughthethornyhedge10
Intothethornythistlyworld,
OutfromEdensedge?
138
Ithinknotalion,
Thoughhisstrengthissuch;
Butaninnocentlovinglamb
Mayhavedoneasmuch.
Ifthedovepreachedfromherbough
andthelambfromhissod,
Thelambanddove
WerepreacherssentfromGod.20
EVE
WhileIsitatthedoor
Sicktogazewithin
Mineeyeweepethsore
Forsorrowandsin:
Asatreemysinstands
Todarkenalllands;
Deathisthefruititbore.
HowhaveEdenbowersgrown
WithoutAdamtobendthem!
HowhaveEdenflowersblown10
Squanderingtheirsweetbreath
Withoutmetotendthem!
TheTreeofLifewasours,
Treetwelvefoldfruited,
Mostloftytreethatflowers,
Mostdeeplyrooted:
Ichosethetreeofdeath.
Hadstthoubutsaidmenay,
Adam,mybrother,
Imighthavepinedaway;20
I,butnoneother:
Godmighthavelettheestay
Safeinourgarden,
Byputtingmeaway
Beyondallpardon.
139
I,Eve,sadmother
Ofallwhomustlive,
I,notanother
Pluckedbitterestfruittogive
Myfriend,husband,lover30
Owantoneyes,runover;
WhobutIshouldgrieve?
Cainhathslainhisbrother:
Ofallwhomustdiemother,
MiserableEve!
Thusshesatweeping,
ThusEveourmother,
Whereonelaysleeping
Slainbyhisbrother.
Greatestandleast
40
Eachpiteousbeast
Tohearhervoice
Forgothisjoys
Andsetasidehisfeast.
Themousepausedinhiswalk
Anddroppedhiswheatenstalk;
Gravecattlewaggedtheirheads
Inrumination;
Theeaglegaveacry
Fromhiscloudstation;
50
Larksonthymebeds
Forboretomountorsing;
Beesdroopeduponthewing;
Theravenperchedonhigh
Forgothisration;
Theconiesintheirrock,
Afeeblenation,
Quakedsympathetical;
Themockingbirdleftofftomock;
Hugecamelskneltasif
60
Indeprecation;
Thekindhartstearswerefalling;
Chatteredthewistfulstork;
Dovevoiceswithadyingfall
Cooeddesolation
Answeringgriefbygrief.
140
Onlytheserpentinthedust
Wrigglingandcrawling,
Grinnedanevilgrinandthrust
Histongueoutwithitsfork.70
GROWNANDFLOWN
IlovedmylovefromgreenofSpring
UntilsereAutumnsfall;
Butnowthatleavesarewithering
Howshouldoneloveatall?
Oneheartstoosmall
Forhunger,cold,love,everything.
Ilovedmyloveonsunnydays
UntillateSummerswane;
Butnowthatfrostbeginstoglaze
Howshouldoneloveagain?
10
Nay,loveandpain
Walkwideapartindiverseways.
Ilovedmylovealastosee
Thatthisshouldbe,alas!
Ithoughtthatthiscouldscarcelybe,
Yethasitcometopass:
Sweetsweetlovewas,
Nowbitterbittergrowntome.
AFARMWALK
Theyearstoodatitsequinox
AndblufftheNorthwasblowing,
Ableatoflambscamefromtheflocks,
Greenhardythingsweregrowing;
Imetamaidwithshininglocks
141
Wheremilkykinewerelowing.
Sheworeakerchiefonherneck,
Herbarearmshoweditsdimple,
Herapronspreadwithoutaspeck,
Herairwasfrankandsimple.10
Shemilkedintoawoodenpail
Andsangacountryditty,
Aninnocentfondloverstale,
Thatwasnotwisenorwitty,
Patheticallyrustical,
Toopointlessforthecity.
Shekeptintimewithoutabeat
Astrueaschurchbellringers,
Unlessshetappedtimewithherfeet,
Orsqueezeditwithherfingers;
20
Herclearunstudiednotesweresweet
Asmanyapractisedsingers.
Istoodaminuteoutofsight,
Stoodsilentforaminute
Toeyethepail,andcreamywhite
Thefrothingmilkwithinit;
Toeyethecomelymilkingmaid
Herselfsofreshandcreamy:
Gooddaytoyou,atlastIsaid;
Sheturnedherheadtoseeme:
30
Goodday,shesaidwithliftedhead;
Hereyeslookedsoftanddreamy,
Andallthewhileshemilkedandmilked
Thegravecowheavyladen:
Iveseengrandladiesplumedandsilked,
Butnotasweetermaiden;
Butnotasweeterfreshermaid
Thanthisinhomelycotton,
Whosepleasantfaceandsilkybraid
Ihavenotyetforgotten.
40
142
Sevenspringshavepassedsincethen,asI
Countwithasobersorrow;
Sevenspringshavecomeandpassedmeby,
Andspringsetsintomorrow.
Ivehalfamindtoshakemyself
FreejustforoncefromLondon,
Tosetmyworkupontheshelf
Andleaveitdoneorundone;
Torundownbytheearlytrain,
Whirldownwithshriekandwhistle,50
AndfeelthebluffNorthblowagain,
Andmarkthesproutingthistle
Setuponwastepatchofthelane
Itsgreenandtenderbristle.
Andspythescarceblownvioletbanks,
Crispprimroseleavesandothers,
Andwatchthelambsleapattheirpranks
Andbutttheirpatientmothers.
Alas,onepointinallmyplan
Myseriousthoughtsdemurto:
60
Sevenyearshavepassedformaidandman,
Sevenyearshavepassedforhertoo;
Perhapsmyroseisoverblown,
Notrosyortoorosy;
Perhapsinfarmhouseofherown
Somehusbandkeepshercosy,
WhereIshouldshowafaceunknown.
Goodbye,mywaysideposy.
SOMEWHEREOROTHER
Somewhereorothertheremustsurelybe
Thefacenotseen,thevoicenotheard,
Theheartthatnotyetneveryetahme!
143
Madeanswertomyword.
Somewhereorother,maybenearorfar;
Pastlandandsea,cleanoutofsight;
Beyondthewanderingmoon,beyondthestar
Thattrackshernightbynight.
Somewhereorother,maybefarornear;
Withjustawall,ahedge,between;10
Withjustthelastleavesofthedyingyear
Fallenonaturfgrowngreen.
ACHILL
Whatcanlambkinsdo
Allthekeennightthrough?
Nestlebytheirwoollymother
Thecarefulewe.
Whatcannestlingsdo
Inthenightlydew?
Sleepbeneaththeirmotherswing
Tilldaybreaksanew.
Ifinafieldortree
Theremightonlybe10
Suchawarmsoftsleepingplace
Foundforme!
CHILDSTALKINAPRIL
Iwishyouwereapleasantwren,
AndIyoursmallacceptedmate;
Howwedlookdownontoilsomemen!
Wedriseandgotobedateight
144
Oritmaybenotquitesolate.
ThenyoushouldseethenestIdbuild,
Thewondrousnestforyouandme;
Theoutsideroughperhaps,butfilled
Withwoolanddown;ah,youshouldsee
Thecosynestthatitwouldbe.10
Wedhaveourchangeofhopeandfear,
Smallquarrels,reconcilementssweet:
Idperchbyyoutochirpandcheer,
Orhopaboutonactivefeet,
Andfetchyoudaintybitstoeat.
Wedbesohappybytheday,
Sosafeandhappythroughthenight,
Webothshouldfeel,andIshouldsay,
Itsalloneseasonofdelight,
Andwellmakemerrywhilstwemay.20
Perhapssomedaytheredbeanegg
Whenspringhadblossomedfromthesnow:
Idstandtriumphantononeleg;
LikechanticleerIdalmostcrow
Toletourlittleneighboursknow.
NextyoushouldsitandIwouldsing
Throughlengtheningdaysofsunnyspring;
Till,ifyouweariedofthetask,
Idsit;andyoushouldspreadyourwing
Fromboughtobough;Idsitandbask. 30
Fancythebreakingoftheshell,
Thechirp,thechickenswetandbare,
Theuntriedproudpaternalswell;
Andyouwithhousewifematronair
Enactingchoicerbillsoffare.
Fancytheembryocoatsofdown,
Thegradualfeatherssoftandsleek;
Tillclothedandstrongfromtailtocrown,
Withvirginwarblingsintheirbeak,
Theytoogoforthtosoarandseek.
40
145
SowoulditlastanAprilthrough
Andearlysummerfreshwithdew:
Thenshouldwepartandliveastwain,
Lovetimewouldbringmebacktoyou
Andbuildourhappynestagain.
GONEFOREVER
Ohappyrosebudblooming
Uponthyparenttree,
Nay,thouarttoopresuming;
Forsoontheearthentombing
Thyfadedcharmsshallbe,
Andthechilldampconsuming.
Ohappyskylarkspringing
Uptothebroadbluesky,
Toofearlessinthywinging,
Toogladsomeinthysinging,10
Thoualsosoonshaltlie
Wherenosweetnotesareringing.
Andthroughlifesshineandshower
Weshallhavejoyandpain;
Butinthesummerbower,
Andatthemorninghour,
Westillshalllookinvain
Forthesamebirdandflower.
UNDERTHEROSE
Theiniquityofthefathersuponthechildren.
Ohtheroseofkeenestthorn!
Onehiddensummermorn
UndertheroseIwasborn.
146
Idonotguesshisname
WhowroughtmyMothersshame,
Andgavemelifeforlorn,
ButmyMother,Mother,Mother,
Iknowherfromallother.
MyMotherpaleandmild,
Fairaseverwasseen,10
Shewasbutscarcesixteen,
Littlemorethanachild,
WhenIwasborn
Toworkherscorn.
Withsecretbitterthroes,
Inapassionofsecretwoes,
Sheboremeundertherose.
OnewhomyMothernursed
Tookmefromthefirst:
Onurse,letmelookupon
20
Thisbabethatcostssodear;
Tomorrowshewillbegone:
Othermothersmaykeep
Theirbabesawakeandasleep,
ButImustnotkeepherhere.
WhetherIknoworguess,
Iknowthisnottheless.
SoIwassentaway
Thatnonemightspythetruth:
Andmychildhoodwaxedtoyouth 30
AndIleftoffchildishplay.
Inevercaredtoplay
Withthevillageboysandgirls;
AndIthinktheythoughtmeproud,
Ifoundsolittletosay
Andkeptsofromthecrowd:
ButIhadthelongestcurls
AndIhadthelargesteyes
Andmyteethweresmalllikepearls;
Thegirlsmightfloutandscoutme, 40
Buttheboyswouldhangaboutme
Insheepishmooningwise.
Ouronestreetvillagestood
147
Alongmilefromthetown,
Amileofwindydown
Andbleakonesidedwood,
Withnotasinglehouse.
Ourtownitselfwassmall,
Withjustthecommonshops,
Andthroveinitssmallway.50
Ourneighbouringgentryreared
Thegoodoldfashionedcrops,
Andmadeoldfashionedboasts
OfwhatJohnBullwoulddo
IfFrenchmanFrogappeared,
Anddrankoldfashionedtoasts,
Andmadeoldfashionedbows
TomyLadyattheHall.
MyLadyattheHall
Isgranderthantheyall:
60
Hersistheoldestname
Inalltheneighbourhood;
Buttheracemustdiewithher
Thoughshesaloftydame,
Forshesunmarriedstill.
Poorpeoplesayshesgood
Andhasanopenhand
Asanyintheland,
Andshesthecomforter
Ofmanysickandsad;
70
Mynurseoncesaidtome
Thateverythingshehad
CameofmyLadysbounty:
Thoughshesgreatestinthecounty
Sheshumbletothepoor,
Nobeggarseeksherdoor
Butfindshelppresently.
Ipraybothnightandday
Forher,andyoumustpray:
Butshellneverfeeldistress
80
Ifneedyfolkcanbless.
Iwasalittlemaid
Whenherewecametolive
Fromsomewherebythesea.
148
Menspokeaforeigntongue
Therewhereweusedtobe
WhenIwasmerryandyoung,
Tooyoungtofeelafraid;
Thefisherfolkwouldgive
Akindstrangewordtome,90
Therebytheforeignsea:
Idontknowwhereitwas,
ButIrememberstill
Ourcottageonahill,
Andfieldsoffloweringgrass
Onthatfairforeignshore.
Ilikedmyoldhomebest,
Butthiswaspleasanttoo:
Soherewemadeournest
AndhereIgrew. 100
AndnowandthenmyLady
Inridingpastourdoor
WouldnodtoNurseandspeak,
Orstoopandpatmycheek;
AndIwasalwaysready
Toholdthefieldgatewide
FormyLadytogothrough;
MyLadyinherveil
Soseldomputaside,
MyLadygraveandpale.110
Ioftensattowonder
Whomightmyparentsbe,
ForIknewofsomethingunder
Mysimpleseemingstate.
Nursenevertalkedtome
Ofmotheroroffather,
Butwatchedmeearlyandlate
Withkindsuspiciouscares:
Ornotsuspicious,rather
Anxious,asifsheknew 120
SomesecretImightgather
Andsmartforunawares.
ThusIgrew.
ButNursewaxedoldandgrey,
149
Bentandweakwithyears.
Therecameacertainday
Thatshelayuponherbed
Shakingherpalsiedhead,
Withwordsshegaspedtosay
Whichhadtostayunsaid.130
Thenwithajerkinghand
Heldoutsopiteously
Shegavearingtome
Ofgoldwroughtcuriously,
Aringwhichshehadworn
SincethedayIwasborn,
Sheoncehadsaidtome:
Islippeditonmyfinger;
Hereyeswerekeentolinger
Onmyhandthatslippediton;140
Thenshesighedonerattlingsigh
Andstaredonwithsightlesseye:
Theonewholovedmewasgone.
HowlongIstayedalone
WiththecorpseIneverknew,
ForIfainteddeadasstone:
WhenIcametolifeoncemore
Iwasdownuponthefloor,
Withneighboursmakingado
Tobringmebacktolife. 150
Iheardthesextonswife
Say:Up,mylad,andrun
TotellitattheHall;
ShewasmyLadysnurse,
Anddonecantbeundone.
Illwatchbythispoorlamb.
IguessmyLadyspurse
Isalwaysopentosuch:
Idrunuponmycrutch
AcrippleasIam,
160
(Forcrampshadvexedhermuch)
Ratherthanthisdearheart
Lackonetotakeherpart.
Fordaysdayafterday
OnmywearybedIlay
150
Wishingthetimewouldpass;
Oh,sowishingthatIwas
Likelytopassaway:
FortheonefriendwhomIknew
Wasdead,Iknewnoother,170
Neitherfathernormother;
AndI,whatshouldIdo?
Onedaythesextonswife
Said:Rouseyourself,mydear:
MyLadyhasdrivendown
FromtheHallintothetown,
Andwethinkshescominghere.
Cheerup,forlifeislife.
ButIwouldnotlookorspeak,
Wouldnotcheerupatall.180
Mytearswereliketofall,
SoIturnedroundtothewall
Andhidmyhollowcheek
MakingasifIslept,
Assilentasastone,
AndnooneknewIwept.
WhatwasmyLadytome,
ThegrandladyfromtheHall?
Shemightcome,orstayaway,
Iwassickatheartthatday:190
Thewholeworldseemedtobe
Nothing,justnothingtome,
ForaughtthatIcouldsee.
YetIlistenedwhereIlay:
Abustlecamebelow,
Aclearvoicesaid:Iknow;
Iwillseeherfirstalone,
Itmaybelessofashock
Ifshessoweaktoday:
Alighthandturnedthelock,200
Alightstepcrossedthefloor,
Onesatbesidemybed:
Butneverawordshesaid.
Forme,myshynessgrew
151
Eachmomentmoreandmore:
SoIsaidneveraword
Andneitherlookednorstirred;
Ithinkshemusthaveheard
Myheartgopitapat:
ThusIlay,myLadysat,210
Morethanamortalhour
(Icountedoneandtwo
BythehouseclockwhileIlay):
Iseemedtohavenopower
Tothinkofathingtosay,
OrdowhatIoughttodo,
Orrousemyselftoachoice.
Atlastshesaid:Margaret,
Wontyouevenlookatme?
Asomethinginhervoice220
Forcedmytearstofallatlast,
Forcedsobsfrommethickandfast;
Somethingnotofthepast,
Yetstirringmemory;
Asomethingnew,andyet
Notnew,toosweettolast,
WhichInevercanforget.
Iturnedandstaredather:
Hercheekshowedhollowpale;
Herhairlikeminewasfair,230
Awonderfulfallofhair
Thatscreenedherlikeaveil;
Butherheightwasstatelier,
Hereyeshaddepthmoredeep;
Ithinktheymusthavehad
Alwaysasomethingsad,
Unlesstheywereasleep.
WhileIstared,myLadytook
Myhandinhersparehand
Jewelledandsoftandgrand,240
Andlookedwithalonglonglook
Ofhungerinmyface;
Asifshetriedtotrace
Featuressheoughttoknow,
152
Andhalfhoped,halffeared,tofind.
Whateverwasinhermind
Sheheavedasighatlast,
Andbegantotalktome.
Yournursewasmydearnurse,
Andhernurslingsdear,saidshe:250
Ineverknewthatshewasworse
Tillherpoorlifewaspast
(HeremyLadystearsdroppedfast):
Imighthavebeenwithher,
Butshehadnocomforter.
Shemighthavetoldmemuch
WhichnowIshallneverknow,
Nevernevershallknow.
Shesatbymesobbingso,
Andseemedsowoebegone,260
ThatIlaidonehandupon
Herswithatimidtouch,
ScarcethinkingwhatIdid,
Notknowingwhattosay:
Thatmomentherfacewashid
Inthepillowclosebymine,
Herarmwasflungoverme,
Shehuggedme,sobbingso
Asifherheartwouldbreak,
AndkissedmewhereIlay.270
Afterthissheoftencame
Tobringmefruitorwine,
Orsometimeshothouseflowers.
AndatnightsIlayawake
Oftenandoftenthinking
Whattodoforhersake.
Wetordryitwasthesame:
Shewouldcomeinatallhours,
Setmeeatinganddrinking
AndsayImustgrowstrong;280
Atlastthedayseemedlong
Andhomeseemedscarcelyhome
Ifshedidnotcome.
Well,Igrewstrongagain:
153
Intimeofprimroses,
Iwenttoplucktheminthelane;
Intimeofnestlingbirds,
Iheardthemchirpingroundthehouse;
Andalltheherds
WereoutatgrasswhenIgrewstrong,290
Anddayswerewaxenlong,
Andtherewasworkforbees
AmongtheMaybushboughs,
AndIhadshotuptall,
Andlifefeltafterall
Pleasant,andnotsolong
WhenIgrewstrong.
IwasgoingtotheHall
TobemyLadysmaid:
Herlittlefriend,shesaidtome,300
Almostherchild,
Shesaidandsmiled
Sighingpainfully;
Blushing,withasecondflush
Asifsheblushedtoblush.
Friend,servant,child:justthis
MystandingattheHall;
TheotherservantscallmeMiss,
MyLadycallsmeMargaret,
Withherclearvoicemusical.310
SheneverchideswhenIforget
Thisorthat;sheneverchides.
Exceptwhenpeoplecometostay,
(Andthatsnotoften)attheHall,
Isitwithherallday
Andrideoutwhensherides.
Shesingstomeandmakesmesing;
SometimesIreadtoher,
Sometimeswemerelysitandtalk.
Shenoticedoncemyring320
Andmademetellitshistory:
Thateveninginourgardenwalk
Shesaidsheshouldinfer
Theringhadbeenmyfathersfirst,
Thenmymothers,givenforme
154
Tothenursewhonursed
Mymotherinhermisery,
Thatsoquitecertainly
Someonemightknowme,who...
Thenshewassilent,andItoo.330
Ihatewhenpeoplecome:
Thewomenspeakandstare
Andmeantobesocivil.
Thisonewillstrokemyhair,
Thatonewillpatmycheek
AndpraisemyLadyskindness,
Expectingmetospeak;
Iliketheproudonesbest
Whositasstruckwithblindness,
AsifIwasntthere.340
Butifanygentleman
IsstayingattheHall
(Thoughfewcomepryinghere),
MyLadyseemstofear
Somedownrightdreadfulevil,
Andmakesmekeepmyroom
Ascloselyasshecan:
SoIhatewhenpeoplecome,
Itissotroublesome.
Inspiteofallhercare,350
Sometimestokeepalive
Isometimesdocontrive
Togetoutinthegrounds
Forawhiffofwholesomeair,
Undertheroseyouknow:
Itscharmingtobreakbounds,
Stolenwatersaresweet,
Andwhatsthegoodoffeet
Iffordaystheymustntgo?
Givemealongertether,360
OrImaybreakfromit.
NowIhaveeyesandears
Andjustsomelittlewit:
AlmostmyLadyschild;
Irecollectshesmiled,
Sighedandblushedtogether;
155
Thenherstoryofthering
Soundsnotimprobable,
Shetolditmesowell
Itseemedtheactualthing:370
Oh,keepyourcounselclose,
ButIguessundertherose,
Inlongpastsummerweather
Whentheworldwasblossoming,
Andtheroseuponitsthorn:
Iguessnotwhohewas
Flawedhonourlikeaglass,
Andmademylifeforlorn,
ButmyMother,Mother,Mother,
Oh,Iknowherfromallother.380
MyLady,youmighttrust
Yourdaughterwithyourfame.
Trustme,Iwouldnotshame
Ourhonourablename,
ForIhavenobleblood
ThoughIwasbredindust
Andbroughtupinthemud.
Iwillnotpressmyclaim,
Justleavemewhereyouwill:
Butyoumighttrustyourdaughter,390
Forbloodisthickerthanwater
Andyouremymotherstill.
SomyLadyholdsherown
Withcondescendinggrace,
andfillsherloftyplace
Withanuntroubledface
Asaqueenmayfillathrone.
WhileIcouldhintatale
(ButthenIamherchild)
Wouldmakeherquail;400
Wouldsetherinthedust,
Lornwithnocomforter,
Herglorioushairdefiled
Andashesonhercheek:
Thedecentworldwouldthrust
Itsfingeroutather,
NotmuchdispleasedIthink
156
Tomakeaninedaysstir;
Thedecentworldwouldsink
Itsvoicetospeakofher.410
NowthisiswhatImean
Todo,nomore,noless:
Nevertospeak,orshow
BaresignofwhatIknow.
Lettheblotpassunseen;
Yea,letherneverguess
Iholdthetangledclue
Shehuddlesoutofview.
Friend,servant,almostchild,
Sobeitandnothingmore420
Onthissideofthegrave.
Mother,inParadise,
Youllseewithclearereyes;
Perhapsinthisworldeven
Whenyouareliketodie
AndfacetofacewithHeaven
Youlldropforoncethelie:
Butyoumustdropthemask,notI.
MyLadypromises
Twohundredpoundswithme430
WheneverImaywed
Amanshecanapprove:
Andsincebesidesherbounty
Imfairestinthecounty
(ForsoIvehearditsaid,
ThoughIdontvouchforthis),
Herpromisedpoundsmaymove
Somehonestmantosee
Myvirtuesandmybeauties;
Perhapstherisinggrazier,440
Ortemperancepublican,
Mayclaimmywifelyduties.
MeanwhileIwaittheirleisure
Andgracebestowingpleasure,
Iwaitthehappyman;
ButifIholdmyhead
Andpitchmyexpectations
Justhigherthantheirlevel,
157
Theymustfallbackonpatience:
Imaynotmeantowed,450
YetIllbecivil.
Nowsometimesinadream
Myheartgoesoutofme
Tobuildandscheme,
TillIsobafterthingsthatseem
Sopleasantinadream:
AhomesuchasIsee
Myblessedneighbourslivein
Withfatherandwithmother,
Allproudofoneanother,460
Namedbyonecommonname
Frombabyinthebud
Tofullblownworkmanfather;
ItslittleshortofHeaven.
Idgivemygentleblood
Towashmyspecialshame
Anddrownmyprivategrudge;
Idtoilandmoilmuchrather
Thedingiestcottagedrudge
Whosemotherneednotblush,470
Thanliveherelikealady
AndseemyMotherflush
Andhearhervoiceunsteady
Sometimes,yetneverdare
Asktosharehercare.
Ofcoursetheservantssneer
Behindmybackatme;
Ofcoursethevillagegirls,
Whoenvymemycurls
Andgownsandidleness,480
Takecomfortinajeer;
Ofcoursetheladiesguess
Justsomuchofmyhistory
Aspointstheemphaticstress
WithwhichtheylaudmyLady;
Thegentlemenwhocatch
Acasualglimpseofme
Andturnagaintosee,
Theirvaletsonthewatch
158
Tospeakawordwithme,490
Allknowandstingmewild;
TillIamalmostready
TowishthatIweredead,
Nofacesmoretosee,
Nomorewordstobesaid,
MyMothersafeatlast
Disburdenedofherchild,
Andthepastpast.
AllequalbeforeGod
OurRectorhasitso,500
Andsundrysleepersnod:
Itmaybeso;Iknow
Allarenotequalhere,
Andwhenthesleeperswake
Theymakeadifference.
Allequalinthegrave
Thatshowsanobvioussense:
YetsomethingwhichIcrave
Notdeathitselfbringsnear;
Nowshoulddeathhalfatone510
Forallmypast;ormake
ThenameIbearmyown?
IlovemydearoldNurse
Wholovedmewithoutgains;
Ilovemymistresseven,
Friend,Mother,whatyouwill:
ButIcouldalmostcurse
MyFatherforhispains;
Andsometimesatmyprayer
KneelinginsightofHeaven520
Ialmostcursehimstill:
Whydidhesethissnare
Tocatchatunaware
MyMothersfoolishyouth;
Loadmewithshamethatshers,
Andherwithsomethingworse,
Alifelongliefortruth?
Ithinkmymindisfixed
Ononepointandmadeup:
159
Toacceptmylotunmixed;530
Nevertodrugthecup
Butdrinkitbymyself.
Illnotbewooedforpelf;
Illnotblotoutmyshame
Withanymansgoodname;
ButnamelessasIstand,
Myhandismyownhand,
AndnamelessasIcame
Igotothedarkland.
Allequalinthegrave540
Ibidemytimetillthen:
AllequalbeforeGod
TodayIfeelHisrod,
TomorrowHemaysave:
Amen.
160
DEVOTIONALPIECES
DESPISEDANDREJECTED
Mysunhasset,Idwell
Indarknessasadeadmanoutofsight;
Andnoneremains,notone,thatIshouldtell
Tohimmineevilplight
Thisbitternight.
Iwillmakefastmydoor
Thathollowfriendsmaytroublemenomore.
Friend,opentoMe.Whoisthisthatcalls?
Nay,Iamdeafasaremywalls:
Ceasecrying,forIwillnothear10
Thycryofhopeorfear.
Othersweredear,
Othersforsookme:whatartthouindeed
ThatIshouldheed
Thylamentableneed?
Hungryshouldfeed,
Orstrangerlodgetheehere?
Friend,MyFeetbleed.
OpenthydoortoMeandcomfortMe.
Iwillnotopen,troublemenomore. 20
Goonthywayfootsore,
Iwillnotriseandopenuntothee.
Thenisitnothingtothee?Open,see
Whostandstopleadwiththee.
Open,lestIshouldpasstheeby,andthou
OnedayentreatMyFace
Andhowlforgrace,
AndIbedeafasthouartnow.
OpentoMe.
ThenIcriedoutuponhim:Cease, 30
Leavemeinpeace:
FearnotthatIshouldcrave
Aughtthoumaysthave.
161
Leavemeinpeace,yeatroublemenomore,
LestIariseandchasetheefrommydoor.
What,shallInotbelet
Alone,thatthoudostvexmeyet?
Butallnightlongthatvoicespakeurgently:
OpentoMe.
Stillharpinginmineears:40
Rise,letMein.
Pleadingwithtears:
OpentoMethatImaycometothee.
Whilethedewdropped,whilethedarkhourswerecold:
MyFeetbleed,seeMyFace,
SeeMyHandsbleedthatbringtheegrace,
MyHeartdothbleedforthee,
OpentoMe.
Sotillthebreakofday:
Thendiedaway50
Thatvoice,insilenceasofsorrow;
Thenfootstepsechoinglikeasigh
Passedmeby,
Lingeringfootstepsslowtopass.
Onthemorrow
Isawuponthegrass
Eachfootprintmarkedinblood,andonmydoor
Themarkofbloodforevermore.
LONGBARREN
Thouwhodidsthanguponabarrentree,
MyGod,forme;
ThoughItillnowbebarren,nowatlength
Lord,givemestrength
TobringforthfruittoThee.
Thouwhodidstbearformethecrownofthorn,
Spittingandscorn;
ThoughItillnowhaveputforththorns,yetnow
162
StrengthenmeThou
Thatbetterfruitbeborne.10
ThouRoseofSharon,Cedarofbroadroots,
Vineofsweetfruits,
ThouLilyofthevalewithfadelessleaf,
OfthousandsChief,
FeedThoumyfeebleshoots.
IFONLY
IfImightonlylovemyGodanddie!
ButnowHebidsmeloveHimandliveon,
Nowwhenthebloomofallmylifeisgone,
Thepleasanthalfoflifehasquitegoneby.
Mytreeofhopeisloppedthatspreadsohigh,
AndIforgethowsummerglowedandshone,
Whileautumngripsmewithitsfingerswan
Andfretsmewithitsfitfulwindysigh.
Whenautumnpassesthenmustwinternumb,
Andwintermaynotpassawearywhile,10
Butwhenitpassesspringshallfloweragain;
Andinthatspringwhoweepethnowshallsmile,
Yea,theyshallwaxwhonowareonthewane,
Yea,theyshallsingforlovewhenChristshallcome.
DOSTTHOUNOTCARE?
Iloveandlovenot:Lord,itbreaksmyheart
Toloveandnottolove.
ThouveiledwithinThyglory,goneapart
IntoThyshrine,whichisabove,
DostThounotloveme,Lord,orcare
Forthismineill?
Ilovetheehereorthere,
163
Iwillacceptthybrokenheart,liestill.
Lord,itwaswellwithmeintimegoneby
Thatcomethnotagain,10
WhenIwasfreshandcheerful,whobutI?
Ifresh,Icheerful:wornwithpain
Now,outofsightandoutofheart;
OLord,howlong?
Iwatchtheeasthouart,
Iwillacceptthyfaintingheart,bestrong.
Liestill,bestrong,today;but,Lord,tomorrow,
Whatoftomorrow,Lord?
Shallthereberestfromtoil,betrucefromsorrow,
Belivinggreenuponthesward20
Nowbutabarrengravetome,
Bejoyforsorrow?
DidInotdieforthee?
DidInotliveforthee?LeaveMetomorrow.
WEARYINWELLDOING
Iwouldhavegone;Godbademestay:
Iwouldhaveworked;Godbademerest.
Hebrokemywillfromdaytoday,
Hereadmyyearningsunexpressed
Andsaidthemnay.
NowIwouldstay;Godbidsmego:
NowIwouldrest;Godbidsmework.
Hebreaksmyhearttossedtoandfro,
Mysouliswrungwithdoubtsthatlurk
Andvexitso.10
Igo,Lord,whereThousendestme;
DayafterdayIplodandmoil:
But,ChristmyGod,whenwillitbe
ThatImayletalonemytoil
AndrestwithThee?
164
MARTYRSSONG
Wemeetinjoy,thoughwepartinsorrow;
Weparttonight,butwemeettomorrow.
Beitfloodorbloodthepaththatstrod,
AllthesameitleadshometoGod:
Beitfurnacefirevoluminous,
OnelikeGodsSonwillwalkwithus.
Whatarethesethatglowfromafar,
Thesethatleanoverthegoldenbar,
Strongasthelion,pureasthedove,
Withopenarmsandheartsoflove?10
Theytheblessedonesgonebefore,
Theytheblessedforevermore.
Outofgreattribulationtheywent
HometotheirhomeofHeavencontent;
Throughflood,orblood,orfurnacefire,
Totherestthatfulfilsdesire.
Whatarethesethatflyasacloud,
Withflashingheadsandfacesbowed,
Intheirmouthsavictoriouspsalm,
Intheirhandsarobeandpalm?20
Welcomingangelsthesethatshine,
Yourownangel,andyours,andmine;
Whohavehedgedus,bothdayandnight
Onthelefthandandtheright,
Whohavewatchedusbothnightandday
Becausethedevilkeepswatchtoslay.
Lightabovelight,andBlissbeyondbliss,
Whomwordscannotutter,lo,WhoisThis?
AsaKingwithmanycrownsHestands,
AndournamesaregravenuponHishands;30
AsaPriest,withGodupliftedeyes,
HeoffersforusHissacrifice;
AstheLambofGodforsinnersslain,
ThatwetoomayliveHelivesagain;
AsourChampionbeholdHimstand,
Strongtosaveus,atGodsRightHand.
165
GodtheFathergiveusgrace
TowalkinthelightofJesusFace.
GodtheSongiveusapart
InthehidingplaceofJesusHeart:40
GodtheSpiritsoholdusup
ThatwemaydrinkofJesuscup;
Deathisshortandlifeislong;
Satanisstrong,butChristmorestrong.
AtHisWord,Whohathledushither.
TheRedSeamustparthitherandthither.
AsHisWord,Whogoesbeforeustoo,
Jordanmustcleavetoletusthrough.
Yetonepangsearchingandsore,
AndthenHeavenforevermore; 50
Yetonemomentawfulanddark,
ThensafetywithintheVeilandtheArk;
YetoneeffortbyChristHisgrace,
ThenChristforeverfacetoface.
GodtheFatherwewilladore,
InJesusName,nowandevermore:
GodtheSonwewillloveandthank
Inthisfloodandonthefurtherbank:
GodtheHolyGhostwewillpraise
InJesusName,throughendlessdays: 60
GodAlmighty,GodThreeinOne,
GodAlmighty,Godalone.
AFTERTHISTHEJUDGEMENT
Aseagerhomeboundtravellertothegoal,
Orsteadfastseekeronanunsearchedmain,
Ormartyrpantingforanaureole,
Myfellowpilgrimspassme,andattain
Thathiddenmansionofperpetualpeace
Wherekeendesireandhopedwellfreefrompain:
Thatgatestandsopenofperennialease;
166
IviewtheglorytillIpartlylong,
Yetlackthefireoflovewhichquickensthese.
OpassingAngel,speedmewithasong,10
Amelodyofheaventoreachmyheart
Androusemetotheraceandmakemestrong;
TillinsuchmusicItakeupmypart
SwellingthoseHallelujahsfullofrest,
One,tenfold,hundredfold,withheavenlyart,
Fulfillingnorthandsouthandeastandwest,
Thousand,tenthousandfold,innumerable,
Allblentinoneyeteachonemanifest;
Eachonedistinguishedandbelovedaswell
Asifnosecondvoiceinearthorheaven 20
WerelifteduptheLoveofGodtotell.
Ah,LoveofGod,whichThineownSelfhastgiven
Tomemostpoor,andmademerichinlove,
Lovethatdostpassthetenfoldseventimesseven,
DrawThoumineeyes,drawThoumyheartabove,
MytreasureadmyheartstoreThouinThee,
Broodovermewithyearningsofadove;
BeHusband,Brother,closestFriendtome;
Lovemeasverymotherlovesherson,
Hersuckingfirstbornfondledonherknee:30
Yea,morethanmotherlovesherlittleone;
For,earthly,evenamothermayforget
Andfeelnopityforitspiteousmoan;
Butthou,OLoveofGod,rememberyet,
Throughthedrydesert,throughthewaterflood
(Life,death)untiltheGreatWhiteThroneisset.
IfnowIamsickinchewingthebittercud
Ofsweetpastsin,thoughsolacedbyThygrace
AndofttimesstrengthenedbyThyFleshandBlood,
HowshallIthenstandupbeforeThyface40
WhenfromThineeyesrepentanceshallbehid
AndutmostJusticestandinMercysplace:
WheneverysinIthoughtorspokeordid
Shallmeetmeattheinexorablebar,
Andtherebenomanstandinginthemid
Topleadforme;whilestarfallenafterstar
Withheavenandeartharelikearipenedshock,
Andalltimesmightyworksandwondersare
Consumedasinamoment;whennorock
Remainstofallonme,notreetohide, 50
167
ButIstandallcreationsgazingstock
Exposedandcomfortlessoneveryside,
Placedtremblinginthefinalbalances
Whosepoisethishour,thismoment,mustbetried?
AhLoveofGod,ifgreaterlovethanthis
Hathnoman,thatamandieforhisfriend,
AndifsuchloveofloveThineOwnLoveis,
PleadwithThyself,withme,beforetheend;
Redeemmefromtheirrevocablepast;
PitchThouThyPresenceroundmetodefend;60
Yeaseekwithpiercedfeet,yeaholdmefast
Withpiercedhandswhosewoundsweremadebylove;
NotwhatIam,rememberwhatThouwast
WhendarknesshidfromTheeThyheavensabove,
AndsinThyFathersFace,whilethoudidstdrink
Thebittercupofdeath,didsttastethereof
Foreveryman;whileThouwastnightosink
Beneaththeintenseintolerablerod,
Grownsickoflove;notwhatIam,butthink
ThyLifethenransomedmine,myGod,myGod.70
GOODFRIDAY
AmIastoneandnotasheep
ThatIcanstand,OChrist,beneathThyCross,
TonumberdropbydropThyBloodsslowloss,
Andyetnotweep?
Notsothosewomenloved
WhowithexceedinggrieflamentedThee;
NotsofallenPeterweepingbitterly;
Notsothethiefwasmoved;
NotsotheSunandMoon
Whichhidtheirfacesinastarlesssky,10
Ahorrorofgreatdarknessatbroadnoon
I,onlyI.
Yetgivenotoer,
168
ButseekThysheep,trueShepherdoftheflock;
GreaterthanMoses,turnandlookoncemore
Andsmitearock.
THELOWESTPLACE
Givemethelowestplace:notthatIdare
Askforthatlowestplace,butThouhastdied
ThatImightliveandshare
ThyglorybyThyside.
Givemethelowestplace:orifforme
Thatlowestplacetoohigh,makeonemorelow
WhereImaysitandsee
MyGodandloveTheeso.
169
MISCELLANEOUSPOEMS,184869
DEATHSCHILLBETWEEN
(Athenaeum,October14,1848)
Chidenot;letmebreathealittle,
ForIshallnotmournhimlong;
Thoughthelifecordwassobrittle,
Thelovecordwasverystrong.
Iwouldwakealittlespace
TillIfindasleepingplace.
Youcango,Ishallnotweep;
Youcangountoyourrest.
Myheartacheisalltoodeep,
Andtoosoremythrobbingbreast.10
Cansobsbe,orangrytears,
Whereareneitherhopesnorfears?
ThoughwithyouIamalone
Andmustbesoeverywhere,
Iwillmakenouselessmoan,
NoneshallsayShecouldnotbear:
WhilelifelastsIwillbestrong,
ButIshallnotstrugglelong.
Listen,listen!Everywhere
Alowvoiceiscallingme,
20
Andastepisonthestair,
Andonecomesyedonotsee,
Listen,listen!Evermore
Adimhandknocksatthedoor.
Hearme;heiscomeagain,
Myowndearestiscomeback.
Bringhiminfromthecoldrain;
Bringwine,andletnothinglack.
ThouandIwillresttogether,
Love,untilthesunnyweather.
30
Iwillsheltertheefromharm,
170
Hidetheefromallheaviness.
Cometome,andkeeptheewarm
Bymysideinquietness.
Iwilllulltheetothysleep
Withsweetsongs:wewillnotweep.
Whohathtalkedofweeping?Yet
Thereissomethingatmyheart,
Gnawing,Iwouldfainforget,
Andanachingandasmart.40
Ah!mymother,tisinvain,
Forheisnotcomeagain.
HEARTSCHILLBETWEEN
(Athenaeum,October21,1848)
Ididnotchidehim,thoughIknew
Thathewasfalsetome.
Chidetheexhalingofthedew,
Theebbingofthesea,
Thefadingofarosyhue,
Butnotinconstancy.
Whystriveforlovewhenloveisoer?
Whybindarestiveheart?
HeneverknewthepainIbore
Insaying:Wemustpart;
10
Letusbefriendsandnothingmore.
Oh,womansshallowart!
Butitisover,itisdone,
Ihardlyheeditnow;
Somanywearyyearshaverun
Sincethen,Ithinknothow
Thingsmighthavebeen,butgreeteachone
Withanunruffledbrow.
WhattimeIamwhereothersbe,
Myheartseemsverycalm
20
171
Stonecalm;butifallgofromme,
Therecomesavaguealarm,
Ashrinkinginthememory
Fromsomeforgottenharm.
Andoftenthroughthelong,longnight,
Wakingwhennonearenear,
Ifeelmyheartbeatfastwithfright,
YetknownotwhatIfear.
OhhowIlongtoseethelight,
Andthesweetbirdstohear!30
Tohavethesunuponmyface,
Tolookupthroughthetrees,
Towalkforthintheopenspace
Andlistentothebreeze,
Andnottodreamtheburialplace
Iscloggingmyweakknees.
SometimesIcannorweepnorpray,
Butamhalfstupefied:
Andthenallthosewhoseemesay
Mineeyesareopenedwide
40
Andthatmywitsseemgoneaway
Ah,wouldthatIhaddied!
WouldIcoulddieandbeatpeace,
Orlivingcouldforget!
Mygriefnorgrowsnordothdecrease,
Buteveris:andyet
Methinks,now,thatallthisshallcease
Beforethesunshallset.
REPINING
(ArtandPoetry[TheGerm,No.3],March1850)
Shesatalwaythrothelongday
Spinningthewearythreadaway;
Andeversaidinundertone:
172
Come,thatIbenomorealone.
Fromearlydawntosetofsun
Working,hertaskwasstillundone;
Andthelongthreadseemedtoincrease
Evenwhileshespunanddidnotcease.
Sheheardthegentleturtledove
Telltoitsmateataleoflove;10
Shesawtheglancingswallowsfly,
Everasocialcompany;
Shekneweachbirduponitsnest
Hadcheeringsongstobringitrest;
Nonelivedalonesaveonlyshe;
Thewheelwentroundmorewearily;
Sheweptandsaidinundertone:
Come,thatIbenomorealone.
Dayfollowedday,andstillshesighed
Forlove,andwasnotsatisfied;
20
Untilonenight,whenthemoonlight
Turnedallthetreestosilverwhite,
Sheheard,whatneersheheardbefore,
Asteadyhandundothedoor.
Thenightingalesincesetofsun
Herthrobbingmusichadnotdone,
Andshehadlistenedsilently;
Butnowthewindhadchanged,andshe
Heardthesweetsongnomore,butheard
Besideherbedawhisperedword: 30
Damsel,riseup;benotafraid;
ForIamcomeatlast,itsaid.
Shetrembled,thothevoicewasmild;
Shetrembledlikeafrightenedchild;
Tillshelookedup,andthenshesaw
Theunknownspeakerwithoutawe.
Heseemedafairyoungman,hiseyes
Beamingwithseriouscharities;
Hischeekwaswhitebuthardlypale;
Andadimglorylikeaveil
40
Hoveredabouthishead,andshone
Throthewholeroomtillnightwasgone.
173
Soherfearfled;andthenshesaid,
Leaninguponherquietbed:
Nowthouartcome,Ipritheestay,
ThatImayseetheeintheday,
Andlearntoknowthyvoice,andhear
Itevermorecallingmenear.
Heanswered:Rise,andfollowme.
Butshelookedupwardswonderingly:50
Andwhitherwouldstthougo,friend?stay
Untilthedawningoftheday.
Buthesaid:Thewindceaseth,Maid;
Ofchillnordampbethouafraid.
Sheboundherhairupfromthefloor,
Andpassedinsilencefromthedoor.
Sotheywentforthtogether,he
Helpingherforwardtenderly.
Thehedgesbowedbeneathhishand;
Forthfromthestreamscamethedryland60
Astheypassedover;evermore
Thepallidmoonbeamsshonebefore;
Andthewindhushed,andnothingstirred;
Notevenasolitarybird,
Scaredbytheirfootsteps,flutteredby
Whereaspentreesstoodsteadily.
Astheywenton,atlengthasound
Cametremblingontheairaround;
Theundistinguishablehum
Oflife,voicesthatgoandcome
70
Ofbusymen,andthechildssweet
Highlaugh,andnoiseoftramplingfeet.
Thenhesaid:Wiltthougoandsee?
Andshemadeanswerjoyfully:
Thenoiseoflife,ofhumanlife,
Ofdearcommunionwithoutstrife,
Ofconverseheldtwixtfriendandfriend;
Isitnothereourpathshallend?
Heledheronalittleway
Untiltheyreachedahillock:Stay.
80
174
Itwasavillageinaplain.
Highmountainsscreeneditfromtherain
Andstormywind;andnighathand
Abubblingstreamletflowed,oersand
Pebblyandfine,andsentlifeup
Greensuccousstalkandflowercup.
Gradually,daysharbinger,
Achillywindbegantostir.
Itseemedagentlepowerlessbreeze
Thatscarcelyrustledthrothetrees;90
Andyetittouchedthemountainshead
Andthepathsmanmightnevertread.
Buthearken:inthequietweather
Doallthestreamsflowdowntogether?
No,tisasoundmoreterrible
Thanthoathousandriversfell.
Theeverlastingiceandsnow
Wereloosenedthen,butnottoflow;
Withaloudcrashlikesolidthunder
Theavalanchecame,buryingunder100
Thevillage;turninglifeandbreath
Andrestandjoyandplanstodeath.
Oh!letusfly,forpityfly;
Letusgohence,friend,thouandI.
Theremustbemanyregionsyet
Wherethesethingsmakenotdesolate.
Helookeduponherseriously;
Thensaid:Ariseandfollowme.
Thepaththatlaybeforethemwas
Nighcoveredoverwithlonggrass;110
Andmanyslimythingsandslow
Trailedonbetweentherootsbelow.
Themoonlookeddimmerthanbefore;
Andshadowycloudletsfloatingoer
Itsfacesometimesquitehiditslight,
Andfilledtheskieswithdeepernight.
Atlast,astheywenton,thenoise
Washeardoftheseasmightyvoice;
Andsoontheoceancouldbeseen
175
Initslongrestlessnessserene.120
Uponitsbreastavesselrode
Thatdrowsilyappearedtonod
Asthegreatbillowsroseandfell,
Andswelledtosink,andsanktoswell.
Meanwhilethestrongwindhadcomeforth
FromthechillregionsoftheNorth,
Themightywindinvisible.
Andthelowwavesbegantoswell;
Andtheskydarkenedoverhead;
Andthemoononcelookedforth,thenfled130
Behinddarkclouds;whilehereandthere
Thelightningshoneoutintheair;
Andtheapproachingthunderrolled
Withangrypealingsmanifold.
Howmanyvowsweremade,andprayers
Thatinsafetimeswerecoldandscarce.
Stillallavailednot;andatlength
Thewavesaroseinalltheirstrength,
Andfoughtagainsttheship,andfilled
Theship.Thenwerethecloudsunsealed,140
Andtherainhurriedforth,andbeat
Oneverysideandoverit.
Someclungtogether,andsomekept
Alongsternsilence,andsomewept.
Manyhalfcrazedlookedoninwonder
Asthestrongtimbersrentasunder;
Friendsforgotfriends,foesfledtofoes;
Andstillthewaterroseandrose.
Ahwoeisme!WhomIhaveseen
Arenowasthotheyhadnotbeen.150
Intheearththereisroomforbirth,
Andtherearegravesenoughinearth;
Whyshouldthecoldsea,tempesttorn,
Burythosewhomithathnotborne?
Heanswerednot,andtheywenton.
Thegloryoftheheavenswasgone;
Themoongleamednotnoranystar;
Coldwindswererustlingnearandfar,
176
Andfromthetreesthedryleavesfell
Withasadsoundunspeakable.160
Theairwascold;tillfromtheSouth
Agustblewhot,likesuddendrouth,
Intotheirfaces;andalight
Glowingandred,shonethrothenight.
Amightycityfullofflame
Anddeathandsoundswithoutaname.
Amidtheblackandblindingsmoke,
Thepeople,asoneman,awoke.
Oh!happytheywhoyesterday
Onthelongjourneywentaway;170
Whosepallidlips,smilingandchill,
Whiletheflamesscorchthemsmileonstill;
Whomurmurnot;whotremblenot
Whenthebiercracklesfieryhot;
Who,dying,saidinlovesincrease:
Lord,letthyservantpartinpeace.
Thoseinthetowncouldseeandhear
Ashadedriverflowingnear;
Thebroaddeepbedcouldhardlyhold
Itsplenteouswaterscalmandcold.180
Wasflamewrappedallthecitywall,
Thecitygateswereflamewrappedall.
Whatwasmansstrength,whatpuissancethen?
Womenweremightyasstrongmen.
Somekneltinprayer,believingstill,
Resigneduntoarighteouswill,
Bowingbeneaththechasteningrod,
Losttotheworld,butfoundofGod.
Someprayedforfriend,forchild,forwife;
Someprayedforfaith;someprayedforlife;190
Whilesome,proudevenindeath,hopegone,
Steadfastandstill,stoodlookingon.
Deathdeathoh!letusflyfromdeath;
Whereerwegoitfolloweth;
Allthesearedead;andwealone
Remaintoweepforwhatisgone.
Whatisthisthing?thushurriedly
177
Topassintoeternity;
Toleavetheearthsofullofmirth;
Tolosetheprofitofourbirth;200
Todieandbenomore;tocease,
Havingnumbnessthatisnotpeace.
Letusgohence;and,evenifthus
Deatheverywheremustgowithus,
Letusnotseethechange,butsee
Thosewhohavebeenorstillshallbe.
Hesighedandtheywentontogether;
Beneaththeirfeetdidthegrasswither;
Acrosstheheavenhighoverhead
Darkmistycloudsfloatedandfled;210
Andintheirbosomwasthethunder,
Andangrylightningsflashedoutunder,
Forkedandredandmenacing;
Faroffthewindwasmuttering;
Itseemedtotell,notunderstood,
Strangesecretstothelisteningwood.
Uponitswingsitborethescent
Ofbloodofagreatarmament:
Thensawtheyhowoneitherside
Fieldsweredowntroddenfarandwide.220
Thatmorningatthebreakofday
Twonationshadgoneforthtoslay.
Asamansowethsohereaps.
Thefieldwasfullofbleedingheaps;
Ghastlycorpsesofmenandhorses
Thatmetdeathatathousandsources;
Coldlimbsandputrifyingflesh;
Longlovelocksclottedtoamesh
Thatstifled;stiffenedmouthsbeneath
Staringeyesthathadlookedondeath.230
Buttheseweredead:thesefeltnomore
Theanguishofthewoundstheybore.
Behold,theyshallnotsighagain,
Norjustlyfear,norhopeinvain.
Whatifnoneweptabovethem?is
Thesleeperlessatrestforthis?
178
Isnottheyoungchildsslumbersweet
Whennomanwatchethoverit?
Thesehaddeepcalm;butallaround
Therewasadeadlysmotheredsound,240
Thechokingcryofagony
Fromwoundedmenwhocouldnotdie;
Whowatchedtheblackwingoftheraven
Riselikeacloudtwixtthemandheaven,
Andinthedistanceflyingfast
Beheldtheeaglecomeatlast.
Shekneltdowninheragony:
OLord,itisenough,saidshe:
Myheartsprayerputtethmetoshame;
LetmereturntowhenceIcame.250
Thouforwholovessakedidstreprove,
Forgivemeforthesakeoflove.
SITDOWNINTHELOWESTROOM
(MacmillansMagazine,March1864.)
Likeflowerssequesteredfromthesun
Andwindofsummer,daybyday
Idwindledpaler,whilstmyhair
Showedthefirsttingeofgrey.
Ohwhatislife,thatweshouldlive?
Orwhatisdeath,thatwemustdie?
Aburstingbubbleisourlife:
Ialso,whatamI?
Whatisyourgrief?nowtellme,sweet,
ThatImaygrieve,mysistersaid;10
Andstayedawhiteembroideringhand
Andraisedagoldenhead:
Hertressesshowedarichermass,
Hereyeslookedsofterthanmyown,
Herfigurehadastatelierheight,
179
Hervoiceatenderertone.
Somemustbesecondandnotfirst;
Allcannotbethefirstofall:
Isnotthis,too,butvanity?
Istumbleliketofall.20
SoyesterdayIreadtheacts
OfHectorandeachclangorousking
WithwrathfulgreatAeacides:
OldHomerleavesasting.
Thecomelyfacelookedupagain,
Thedefthandlingeredonthethread:
Sweet,tellmewhatisHomerssting,
OldHomerssting?shesaid.
Hestirsmysluggishpulselikewine,
Hemeltsmelikethewindofspice, 30
StrongasstrongAjaxredrighthand,
AndgrandlikeJunoseyes.
Icannotmeltthesonsofmen,
Icannotfireandtempesttoss:
Besides,thosedaysweregoldendays,
Whilstthesearedaysofdross.
Shelaughedafemininelowlaugh,
Yetdidnotstayherdexteroushand:
Nowtellmeofthosedays,shesaid,
Whentimerangoldensand.
40
Thenmenweremenofmightandright,
Sheermight,atleast,andweightyswords;
Thenmeninopenbloodandfire,
Borewitnesstotheirwords,
Crestrearingkingswithwhistlingspears;
Butiftheseshiveredintheshock
Theywrencheduphundredrootedtrees,
Orhurledtheeffacingrock.
Thenhandtohand,thenfoottofoot,
180
Sterntothedeathgripgrapplingthen,50
Whoeverthoughtofgunpowder
Amongstthesemenofmen?
Theyknewwhosehandstruckhomethedeath,
Theyknewwhobrokebutwouldnotbend,
Couldvenerateanequalfoe
Andscornalaggardfriend.
Calmintheutmoststressofdoom,
Devouttowardadversepowersabove,
Theyhatedwithintenserhate
Andlovedwithfullerlove.
60
Thenheavenlybeautycouldallay
Asheavenlybeautystirredthestrife:
Bythemaslavewasworshippedmore
Thanisbyusawife.
Shelaughedagain,mysisterlaughed,
Madeansweroerthelabouredcloth:
Iwouldratherbeoneofus
Thanwife,orslave,orboth.
Ohbetterthenbeslaveorwife
Thanfritternowblanklifeaway:
70
Thennighthadholinessofnight,
Anddaywassacredday.
Theprincesslabouredatherloom,
Mistressandhandmaidenalike;
Beneaththeirneedlesgrewthefield
Withwarriorsarmedtostrike.
Or,lookagain,dimDiansface
Gleamedperfectthroughtheattendantnight;
Weresuchnotbetterthanthoseholes
Amidthatwasteofwhite?
80
Ashameitis,ouraimlesslife:
Iratherfrommyheartwouldfeed
Fromsilverdishingildedstall
Withwheatandwinethesteed
181
Thefaithfulsteedthatboremylord
Insafetythroughthehostileland,
Thefaithfulsteedthatarchedhisneck
Tofondlewithmyhand.
Herneedleerred;amomentspause,
Amomentspatience,allwaswell.90
Thenshe:Butjustsupposethehorse,
Supposetheriderfell?
Thencaptiveinanalienhouse,
Hungeringonexilesbitterbread,
Theyhappy,theywhowonthelot
Ofsacrifice,shesaid.
Speakingshefaltered,whileherlook
Showedforthherpassionlikeaglass:
Withhandsuspended,kindlingeye,
Flushedcheek,howfairshewas!100
Ahwell,bethosethedaysofdross;
This,ifyouwill,theageofgold:
Yethadthosedaysasparkofwarmth,
Whilethesearesomewhatcold
Aresomewhatmeanandcoldandslow,
Arestuntedfromheroicgrowth:
Wegainbutlittlewhenweprove
Theworthlessnessofboth.
Butlifeisinourhands,shesaid:
Inourownhandsforgainorloss:110
ShallnottheSevenfoldSacredFire
Sufficetopurgeourdross?
Tooshortacenturyofdreams,
Onedayofworksufficientlength:
Whyshouldnotyou,whyshouldnotI
Attainheroicstrength?
Ourlifeisgivenusasablank;
Ourselvesmustmakeitblestorcurst:
WhodoomsmeIshallonlybe
182
Thesecond,notthefirst?120
LearnfromoldHomer,ifyouwill,
Suchwisdomashisbookshavesaid:
InonetheactsofAjaxshine,
InoneofDiomed.
Honouredallheroeswhosehighdeeds
Throlife,tilldeath,enlargetheirspan:
OnlyAchillesinhisrage
Andslothislessthanman.
Achillesonlylessthanman?
Helessthanmanwho,halfagod,130
DiscomfitedallGreecewithrest,
CowedIlionwithanod?
Heofferedvengeance,lifelonggrief
Toonedearghost,uncountedprice:
Beasts,Trojans,adversegods,himself,
Heapedupthesacrifice.
Selfimmolatedtohisfriend,
Shrinedinworldswonder,Homerspage,
Isthistheman,thelessthanmen,
Ofthisdegenerateage?140
Grossfromhisacorns,tuskyboar
Doesmemorableactslikehis;
Soforhersnaredoffendedyoung
Bleedstheswartlioness.
Buthereshepaused;oureyeshadmet,
AndIwaswhiteningwiththejeer;
Sherose:Iwenttoofar,shesaid;
Spokelow:Forgiveme,dear.
Tomeourdaysseempleasantdays,
Ourhomeahavenofpurecontent;150
ForgivemeifIsaidtoomuch,
SomuchmorethanImeant.
Homer,thogreaterthanhisgods,
183
Withroughhewnvirtueswassufficed
Androughhewnmen:butwhataresuch
TouswholearnofChrist?
Themuchmovedpathosofhervoice,
Heralmosttearfuleyes,hercheek
Grownpale,confessedthestrengthoflove
Whichonlymadeherspeak:160
Formildshewas,offewsoftwords,
Mostgentle,easytobeled,
ContenttolistenwhenIspoke
AndreverencewhatIsaid;
Ieldersisterbysixyears;
Nothalfsoglad,orwise,orgood:
Herwordsrebukedmysecretself
AndshamedmewhereIstood.
Sheneverguessedherwordsreproved
Asilentenvynursedwithin,170
Aselfish,souringdiscontent
Prideborn,thedevilssin.
Ismiled,halfbitter,halfinjest:
Thewisestmanofallthewise
Leftforhissummaryoflife
Vanityofvanities.
Beneaththesuntheresnothingnew:
Menflow,menebb,mankindflowson:
IfIamweariedofmylife,
WhysowasSolomon.180
Vanityofvanitieshepreached
Ofallhefound,ofallhesought:
Vanityofvanities,thegist
Ofallthewordshetaught.
Thisinthewisdomoftheworld,
InHomerspage,inall,wefind:
Astheseaisnotfilled,soyearns
Mansuniversalmind.
184
ThisHomerfelt,whogavehismen
Withglorybutatransientstate:190
HisveryJovecouldnotreverse
Irrevocablefate.
Uncertainalltheirlotsavethis
Whowinsmustlose,wholivesmustdie:
Alltroddenoutintothedark
Alike,allvanity.
ShescarcelyansweredwhenIpaused,
Butrathertoherselfsaid:One
Ishere,lowvoicedandloving,Yea,
GreaterthanSolomon.200
Sobothweresilent,sheandI:
Shelaidherworkaside,andwent
Intothegardenwalks,likespring,
Allgraciouswithcontent,
Alittlegraverthanherwont,
Becauseherwordshadfrettedme;
Notwarblingquitehermerriesttune
Birdlikefromtreetotree.
Ichoseabooktoreadanddream:
Yethalfthewhilewithfurtiveeyes210
Markedhowshemadeherchoiceofflowers
Intuitivelywise,
Andrangedthemwithinstinctivetaste
Whichallmybookshadfailedtoteach;
Freshroseherself,anddaintier
Thanblossomofthepeach.
Bybirthrighthigherthanmyself,
Thonestlingoftheselfsamenest:
Nofaultofhers,nofaultofmine,
Butstubborntodigest.220
Iwatchedher,tillmybookunmarked
Slidnoiselesstothevelvetfloor;
Tillalltheopulentsummerworld
185
Lookedpoorerthanbefore.
Justthenherbusyfingersceased,
Herflutteredcolourwentandcame;
Iknewwhosestepwasonthewalk,
Whosevoicewouldnamehername.
*******
Well,twentyyearshavepassedsincethen:
Mysisternow,astatelywife230
Stillfair,looksbackinpeaceandsees
Thelongerhalfoflife
Thelongerhalfofprosperouslife,
Withlittlegrief,orfear,orfret:
Sheloved,and,lovinglongago,
Islovedandlovingyet.
Ahusbandhonourable,brave,
Ishermainwealthinalltheworld:
Andnexttohimonelikeherself,
Onedaughtergoldencurled;240
Fairimageofherownfairyouth,
Asbeautifulandasserene,
Withalmostsuchanotherlove
Asherownlovehasbeen.
Yet,thoofworldwidecharity,
Andinherhomemosttenderdove,
Hertreasureandherheartarestored
Inthehomelandoflove:
Shethrives,Godsblessedhusbandry;
Shelikeavineisfulloffruit;250
Herpassionflowerclimbsuptowardheaven
Thoearthstillbindsitsroot.
Isitandwatchmysistersface:
Howlittlealteredsincethehours
Whenshe,akind,lightheartedgirl,
Gatheredhergardenflowers;
186
Hersongjustmellowedbyregret
Forhavingteasedmewithhertalk;
Thenallforgetfulassheheard
Onestepuponthewalk.260
WhileI?Isataloneandwatched
Mylotinlife,tolivealone,
Inmineownworldofinterests,
Muchfeltbutlittleshown.
Nottobefirst:howhardtolearn
Thatlifelonglessonofthepast;
Linegravenonlineandstrokeonstroke;
But,thankGod,learnedatlast.
SonowinpatienceIpossess
Mysoulyearaftertediousyear,270
Contenttotakethelowestplace,
Theplaceassignedmehere.
Yetsometimes,whenIfeelmystrength
Mostweak,andlifemostburdensome,
Iliftmineeyesuptothehills
Fromwhencemyhelpshallcome:
Yea,sometimesstillIliftmyheart
TotheArchangelictrumpetburst,
Whenalldeepsecretsshallbeshown,
Andmanylastbefirst.280
MYFRIEND
(MacmillansMagazine,Dec.1864.)
Twodaysagowithdancingglancinghair,
Withlivinglipsandeyes:
Nowpale,dumb,blind,shelies;
Sopale,yetstillsofair.
187
Wehavenotleftheryet,notyetalone;
Butsoonmustleaveherwhere
Shewillnotmissourcare,
Boneofourbone.
Weepnot;Ofriends,weshouldnotweep:
Ourfriendoffriendsliesfullofrest;10
Nosorrowranklesinherbreast,
Fallenfastasleep.
Shesleepsbelow,
Shewakesandlaughsabove:
Today,asshewalked,letuswalkinlove;
Tomorrowfollowso.
LASTNIGHT
(MacmillansMagazine,May1865.)
Wherewereyoulastnight?Iwatchedatthegate;
Iwentdownearly,Istayeddownlate.
Wereyousnugathome,Ishouldliketoknow,
OrwereyouinthecoppicewheedlingKate?
Shesafinegirl,withafineclearskin;
Easytowoo,perhapsnothardtowin.
Speakuplikeamanandtellmethetruth:
Imnotonetogrowdownheartedandthin.
Ifyouloveherbestspeakuplikeaman;
ItsnotIwillstandinthelightofyourplan:10
Somegirlsmightcryandscoldyouabit,
Andsaytheycouldntbearit;butIcan.
Lovewaspleasantenough,andthedayswentfast;
Pleasantwhileitlasted,butitneedntlast;
Awhileonthewaxandawhileonthewane,
Nowdroppedawayintothepast.
188
Wasitpleasanttoyou?Tomeitwas;
Nowcleangoneasanimagefromglass,
Asagoodlyrainbowthatfadesaway,
Asdewthatsteamsupwardfromthegrass,20
Asthefirstspringday,orthelastsummerday,
Asthesunsetflushthatleavesheavengrey,
Asaflameburntoutforlackofoil,
Whichnopainsrelightorevermay.
GoodlucktoKateandgoodlucktoyou:
Iguessshellbekindwhenyoucometowoo.
Iwishheraprettyfacethatwilllast,
Iwishherahusbandsteadyandtrue.
Hateyou?notI,myverygoodfriend;
Allthingsbeginandallhaveanend.30
Butletbrokenbebroken;Iputnofaith
Inquackswhosetuptopatchandmend.
JustmyloveandonewordtoKate:
Nottolettimeslipifshemeanstomate;
Forevensuchathinghasbeenknown
Astomissthechancewhileweweighandwait.
CONSIDER
(MacmillansMagazine,Jan.1866.)
Consider
Theliliesofthefieldwhosebloomisbrief:
Weareasthey;
Likethemwefadeaway,
Asdothaleaf.
Consider
Thesparrowsoftheairofsmallaccount:
OurGoddothview
Whethertheyfallormount,
189
Heguardsustoo.10
Consider
Theliliesthatdoneitherspinnortoil,
Yetaremostfair:
Whatprofitsallthiscare
Andallthiscoil?
Consider
Thebirdsthathavenobarnnorharvestweeks;
Godgivesthemfood:
MuchmoreourFatherseeks
Todousgood.20
HELENGREY
Becauseonelovesyou,HelenGrey,
Isthatareasonyoushouldpout,
AndlikeaMarchwindveerabout,
Andfrown,andsayyourshrewishsay?
Dontstrainthecorduntilitsnaps,
Dontsplitthesoundheartwithyourwedge,
Dontcutyourfingerswiththeedge
Ofyourkeenwit;youmay,perhaps.
Becauseyourehandsome,HelenGrey,
Isthatareasontobeproud?10
Youreyesarebold,yourlaughisloud,
Yourstepsgomincingontheirway;
Butsoyoumissthatmodestcharm
Whichisthesurestcharmofall:
Takeheed,youyetmaytripandfall,
Andnomancaretostretchhisarm.
Stoopfromyourcoldheight,HelenGrey,
Comedown,andtakealowlierplace;
Comedown,tofillitnowwithgrace;
190
Comedownyoumustperforcesomeday:20
Foryearscannotbekeptatbay,
Andfadingyearswillmakeyouold;
Thenintheirturnwillmenseemcold,
Whenyouyourselfarenippedandgrey.
BYTHEWATERSOFBABYLON
B.C.570
(MacmillansMagazine,October1866.)
HerewhereIdwellIwastetoskinandbone;
Thecurseiscomeuponme,andIwaste
Inpenaltormentpowerlesstoatone.
Thecurseiscomeonme,whichmakesnohaste
Anddothnottarry,crushingboththeproud
Hardmanandhimthesinnerdoublefaced.
Looknotuponme,formysoulisbowed
Withinme,asmybodyinthismire;
Mysoulcrawlsdumbstruck,sorebestedandcowed.
AsSodomandGomorrahscourgedbyfire,10
AsJerichobeforeGodstrumpetpeal,
SowetheelectonesperishinHisire.
Vainlywegirdonsackcloth,vainlykneel
WithfamishedfacestowardJerusalem:
Hisheartisshutagainstusnottofeel,
HisearsagainstourcryHeshutteththem,
HishandHeshorteneththatHewillnotsave,
Hislawisloudagainstustocondemn:
Andwe,asuncleanbodiesinthegrave
Inheritingcorruptionandthedark,20
AreoutcastfromHispresencewhichwecrave.
OurMercyhathdepartedfromHisArk,
OurGloryhathdepartedfromHisrest,
OurShieldhathleftusnakedasamark
Untoallpitilesseyesmademanifest.
OurveryFatherhathforsakenus,
OurGodhathcastusfromHim:weoppressed
191
Untoourfoesareevenmarvellous,
Ahissingandabuttforpointinghands,
WhilstGodAlmightyhuntsandgrindsusthus;30
ForHehathscatteredusinalienlands,
Ourpriests,ourprinces,ouranointedking,
Andboundushandandfootwithbrazenbands.
HerewhileIsitmypainfulhearttakeswing
HometothehomelandImustseenomore,
Wheremilkandhoneyflow,wherewatersspring
Andfailnot,whereIdweltindaysofyore
Undermyfigtreeandmyfruitfulvine,
Therewheremyparentsdweltateasebefore:
Nowstrangerspresstheolivesthataremine,40
Reapallthecornersofmyharvestfield,
Andmaketheirfatheartswantonwithmywine;
Tothemmytrees,tothemmygardenyield
Theirsweetsandspicesandtheirtendergreen,
Oertheminnoontideheatoutspreadtheirshield.
Yetthesearetheywhosefathershadnotbeen
Housedwithmydogs,whomhipandthighwesmote
Andwiththeirbloodwashedtheirpollutionsclean,
Purgingthelandwhichspewedthemfromitsthroat;
Theirdaughterstookweforapleasantprey,50
Choicetenderonesonwhomthefathersdoat.
Nowtheyinturnhaveledourownaway;
Ourdaughtersandoursistersandourwives
Soreweepingastheyweepwhocursetheday,
Tolive,remotefromhelp,dishonouredlives,
Soothingtheirdrunkenmasterswithasong,
Ordancingintheirgoldentinklinggyves:
Accurstiftheyrememberthroughthelong
Estrangementoftheirexile,twiceaccursed
Iftheyforgetandjointheaccursedthrong.60
Howdothmyheartthatissowrungnotburst
WhenIrememberthatmywaywasplain,
AndthatGodscandlelitmeatthefirst,
WhilstnowIgropeindarkness,gropeinvain,
DesiringbuttofindHimWhoislost,
TofindHimonceagain,butonceagain.
Hiswrathcameonustotheuttermost,
Hiscovenantedandmostrighteouswrath:
YetthisisHeofWhomwemadeourboast,
WholittheFieryPillarinourpath,70
192
WhoswepttheRedSeadrybeforeourfeet,
WhoinHisjealousysmotekings,andhath
SwornoncetoDavid:Oneshallfillthyseat
Bornofthybody,asthesunandmoon
Stablishedforayeinsovereigntycomplete.
OLord,rememberDavid,andthatsoon.
TheGloryhathdeparted,Ichabod!
Yetnow,beforeoursungrowdarkatnoon,
BeforewecometonoughtbeneathThyrod,
Beforewegodownquickintothepit,80
Rememberusforgood,OGod,ourGod:
ThyNamewillIremember,praisingit,
ThoughThouforgetme,thoughThouhideThyface,
AndblotmefromtheBookwhichThouhastwrit;
ThyNamewillIrememberinmypraise
AndcalltomindThyfaithfulnessofold,
ThoughasaweaverThoucutoffmydays,
Andendmeasataleendsthatistold.
SEASONS
(MacmillansMagazine,Dec.1866.)
OhthecheerfulBuddingtime!
Whenthornhedgesturntogreen,
Whennewleavesofelmandlime
Cleaveandshedtheirwinterscreen;
Tenderlambsarebornandbaa,
Northwindfindsnosnowtobring,
VigorousNaturelaughsHa,ha,
Inthemiracleofspring.
OhthegorgeousBlossomdays!
Whenbroadflagflowersdrinkandblow,10
Inandoutinsummerblaze
Dragonfliesflashtoandfro;
Ashenbrancheshangoutkeys,
Oaksputforththerosyshoot,
Wanderingherdswaxsleekatease,
193
Lovelyblossomsendinfruit.
OhtheshoutingHarvestweeks!
Motherearthgrownfatwithsheaves
Thriftygleanerfindswhoseeks;
Russetgoldenpompofleaves20
Crownsthewoods,tofallatlength;
Bracingwindsarefelttostir,
Oceangathersupherstrength,
Beastsrenewtheirdwindledfur.
OhthestarvingWinterlapse!
Icebound,hungerpinchedanddim;
Dormantrootsrecalltheirsaps,
Emptynestsshowblackandgrim,
Shortlivedsunshinegivesnoheat,
Unduebudsarenippedbyfrost,
30
Snowsetsforthawindingsheet,
Andallhopeoflifeseemslost.
MOTHERCOUNTRY
Ohwhatisthatcountry
Andwherecanitbe,
Notmineowncountry,
Butdearerfartome?
Yetmineowncountry,
IfIonedaymaysee
Itsspicesandcedars,
Itsgoldandivory.
AsIliedreaming
Itrises,thatland:
10
Thererisesbeforeme
Itsgreengoldenstrand,
Withitsbowingcedars
Anditsshiningsand;
194
Itsparklesandflashes
Likeashakenbrand.
Doangelsleannearer
WhileIlieandlong?
Iseetheirsoftplumage
Andcatchtheirwindysong,20
Liketheriseofahightide
Sweepingfullandstrong;
Imarktheoutskirts
Oftheirreverendthrong.
Ohwhatisakinghere,
Orwhatisaboor?
Hereallstarvetogether,
Alldwarfedandpoor;
HereDeathshandknocketh
Atdoorafterdoor,
30
Hethinsthedancers
Fromthefestalfloor.
Ohwhatisahandmaid,
Orwhatisaqueen?
Allmustliedowntogether
Wheretheturfisgreen,
Thefoulestfacehidden,
Thefairestnotseen;
Goneasifnever,
Theyhadbreathedorbeen.
40
Gonefromsweetsunshine
Underneaththesod,
Turnedfromwarmfleshandblood
Tosenselessclod,
Goneasifnever
Theyhadtoiledortrod,
Goneoutofsightofall
ExceptourGod.
Shutintosilence
Fromtheaccustomedsong,
50
Shutintosolitude
Fromallearthsthrong,
195
Rundownthoswiftoffoot,
Thrustdownthostrong;
Lifemadeanendof
Seemeditshortorlong.
Lifemadeanendof,
Lifebutjustbegun,
Lifefinishedyesterday,
Itslastsandrun;60
Lifenewbornwiththemorrow,
Freshasthesun:
Whiledoneisdoneforever;
Undone,undone.
Andifthatlifeislife,
Thisisbutabreath,
Thepassageofadream
Andtheshadowofdeath;
Butavainshadow
Ifoneconsidereth;70
Vanityofvanities,
AsthePreachersaith.
ASMILEANDASIGH
Asmilebecausethenightsareshort!
Andeverymorningbringssuchpleasure
Ofsweetlovemaking,harmlesssport:
Love,thatmakesandfindsitstreasure;
Love,treasurewithoutmeasure.
Asighbecausethedaysarelong!
Longlongthesedaysthatpassinsighing,
Aburdensaddenseverysong:
Whiletimelagswhoshouldbeflying,
Welivewhowouldbedying.
196
DEADHOPE
Hopenewbornonepleasantmorn
Diedateven;
Hopedeadlivesnevermore.
No,notinheaven.
Ifhisshroudwerebutacloud
Toweepitselfaway;
Orwereheburiedunderground
Tosproutsomeday!
Butdeadandgoneisdeadandgone
Vainlyweptupon.10
Noughtweplaceabovehisface
Tomarkthespot,
Butitshowsabarrenplace
Inourlot.
Hopehasbirthnomoreonearth
Mornoreven;
Hopedeadlivesnevermore,
No,notinheaven.
AUTUMNVIOLETS
(MacmillansMagazine,November1868.)
Keeploveforyouth,andvioletsforthespring:
Ofifthesebloomwhenwornoutautumngrieves,
Letthemliehidindoubleshadeofleaves,
Theirown,andothersdroppeddownwithering;
Forvioletssuitwhenhomebirdsbuildandsing,
Notwhentheoutboundbirdapassagecleaves;
Notwithdrystubbleofmownharvestsheaves,
Butwhenthegreenworldbudstoblossoming.
Keepvioletsforthespring,andloveforyouth,
197
Lovethatshoulddwellwithbeauty,mirth,andhope:
Orifalatersadderlovebeborn,
Letthisnotlookforgracebeyonditsscope,
Butgiveitself,norpleadforansweringtruth
AgratefulRuththogleaningscantycorn.
THEYDESIREABETTERCOUNTRY
IwouldnotifIcouldundomypast,
Thoforitssakemyfutureisablank;
Mypast,forwhichIhavemyselftothank,
Forallitsfaultsandfolliesfirstandlast.
Iwouldnotcastanewthelotoncecast,
Orlaunchasecondshipforonethatsank,
OrdrugwithsweetsthebitternessIdrank,
Orbreakbyfeastingmyperpetualfast.
IwouldnotifIcould:formuchmoredear
Isoneremembrancethanahundredjoys,10
Morethanathousandhopesinjubilee;
Dearerthemusicofonetearfulvoice
Thatunforgottencallsandcallstome,
Followmehere,riseup,andfollowhere.
II
Whatseekestthoufarintheunknownland?
InhopeIfollowjoygoneonbefore,
Inhopeandfearpersistentmoreandmore,
Asthedrydesertlengthensoutitssand.
WhilstdayandnightIcarryinmyhand
Thegoldenkeytoopethegoldendoor 20
Ofgoldenhome;yetmineeyeweepethsore
Forthelongjourneythatmustmakenostand.
Andwhoisthisthatveileddothwalkwiththee?
Lo,thisisLovethatwalkethatmyright;
Oneexileholdsusboth,andwearebound
198
Toselfsamehomejoysinthelandoflight.
Weepingthouwalkestwithhim;weepethhe?
Somesobbingweep,someweepandmakenosound.
III
Adimnessofagloryglimmershere
Throveilsanddistancefromthespaceremote,30
Afaintestfarvibrationofanote
Reachestousandseemstobringusnear,
Causingourfacetoglowwithbravercheer,
Makingtheserriedmisttostandafloat,
Subduinglangourwithanantidote,
Andstrengtheninglovealmosttocastoutfear,
Tillforonemomentgoldencitywalls
Riseloomingonus,goldenwallsofhome,
Lightofoureyesuntilthedarknessfalls;
Thenthrotheouterdarknessburdensome40
Ihearagainthetendervoicethatcalls,
Followmehither,follow,rise,andcome.
THEOFFERINGOFTHENEWLAW,THEONEOBLATIONONCE
OFFERED
(LyraEucharistica,1863.)
OnceIthoughttositsohigh
InthePalaceofthesky;
Now,IthankGodforHisGrace,
IfImayfillthelowestplace.
OnceIthoughttoscalesosoon
Heightsabovethechangingmoon;
Now,IthankGodfordelay
Today,ityetiscalledtoday.
WhileIstumble,haltandblind,
Lo!Hewaitethtobekind;10
Blessmesoon,orblessmeslow,
199
ExceptHebless,Iletnotgo.
OnceforearthIlaidmyplan,
OnceIleanedonstrengthofman,
Whenmyhopewassweptaside,
Istayedmybrokenheartonpride:
Brokenreedhathpiercedmyhand;
FellmyhouseIbuiltonsand;
Roofless,wounded,maimedbysin,
Fightingswithoutandfearswithin:20
Yet,atree,Hefeedsmyroot;
Yet,abranch,Heprunesforfruit;
Yet,asheep,theseevesandmorns,
Heseeksformeamongthethorns.
WithThineImagestampedofold,
FindThycoinmorechoicethangold;
KnowntoTheebyname,recall
ToTheeThyhomesickprodigal.
SacrificeandOffering
NonethereisthatIcanbring,30
None,savewhatisThinealone:
IbringThee,Lord,butofThineOwn
BrokenBody,BloodOutpoured,
TheseIbring,myGod,myLord;
WineofLife,andLivingBread,
WiththeseformeThyBoardisspread.
CONFERENCEBETWEENCHRIST,THESAINTS,ANDTHESOUL
(LyraEucharistica,1863.)
Iampalewithsickdesire,
Formyheartisfaraway
Fromthisworldsfitfulfire
200
Andthisworldswaningday;
Inadreamitoverleaps
Aworldoftediousills
Towherethesunshinesleeps
Ontheverlastinghills.
SaytheSaintsThereAngelseaseus
Glorifiedandwhite.10
TheysayWerestinJesus,
Whereisnotdaynornight.
MySoulsaithIhavesought
Forahomethatisnotgained,
Ihavespentyetnothingbought,
Havelabouredbutnotattained;
Mypridestrovetoriseandgrow,
Andhathbutdwindleddown;
Mylovesoughtlove,andlo!
Hathnotattaineditscrown.
20
SaytheSaintsFreshSoulsincreaseus,
Nonelanguishnorrecede.
TheysayWeloveourJesus,
AndHelovesusindeed.
Icannotriseabove,
Icannotrestbeneath,
IcannotfindoutLove,
NorescapefromDeath;
Dearhopesandjoysgoneby
Stillmockmewithaname;
30
Mybestbeloveddie
AndIcannotdiewiththem.
SaytheSaintsNodeathsdecreaseus,
Whereourrestisglorious.
TheysayWeliveinJesus,
Whooncediedforus.
Oh,mySoul,shebeatsherwings
Andpantstoflyaway
UptoimmortalThings
IntheHeavenlyday:
40
Yetsheflagsandalmostfaints;
Cansuchbemeantforme?
ComeandseesaytheSaints.
201
SaithJesusComeandsee.
SaytheSaintsHisPleasurespleaseus
BeforeGodandtheLamb.
ComeandtasteMySweetssaithJesus
BewithMewhereIam.
COMEUNTOME
(LyraEucharistica,secondedition,1864.)
Oh,forthetimegoneby,whenthoughtofChrist
MadeHisYokeeasyandHisBurdenlight;
Whenmyheartstirredwithinmeatthesight
OfAltarspreadforawfulEucharist;
WhenallmyhopesHispromisessufficed,
WhenmySoulwatchedforHimbyday,bynight,
Whenmylamplightenedandmyrobewaswhite,
Andallseemedloss,exceptthePearlunpriced.
Yet,sinceHecallsmestillwithtenderCall,
SinceHeremembersWhomIhalfforgot,
Ievenwillrunmyraceandbearmylot:
ForFaiththewallsofJerichocastdown,
AndHopetowhosorunsholdsforthaCrown,
AndLoveisChrist,andChristisAllinall.
JESUS,DOILOVETHEE?
Jesus,doIloveThee?
Thouartfaraboveme,
Seatedoutofsight
HidinHeavenlyLight
Ofmosthighestheight.
MartyredhostsimploreThee,
202
SeraphsfallbeforeThee,
AngelsandArchangels,
CherubthrongsadoreThee;
BlessedShethatboreThee!10
AlltheSaintsapproveThee,
AlltheVirginsloveThee.
Ishowasablot
Bloodhathcleansednot,
Asabarrenspot
InThyfruitfullot.
I,figtreefruitunbearing;
Thou,righteousJudgeunsparing:
WhatcanstThoudomoretome
Thatshallnotmoreundome?
20
ThyJusticehathasound
Whycumberethittheground?
ThyLovewithstirringsstronger
PleadsGiveitoneyearlonger.
Thougivstmetime:butwho
SaveThoushallgivemedew;
ShallfeedmyrootwithBlood,
Andstirmysapforgood?
Oh,byThyGiftsthatshameme,
Givemorelesttheycondemnme: 30
GoodLord,IaskmuchofThee,
ButmostIasktoloveThee;
KindLord,bemindfulofme,
Loveme,andmakemeloveThee.
IKNOWYOUNOT
(LyraMessianica,1864.)
OChrist,theVinewithlivingFruit,
ThetwelvefoldfruitedTreeofLife,
TheBalminGileadafterstrife,
ThevalleyLilyandtheRose;
StrongerthanLebanon,ThouRoot;
Sweeterthanclusteredgrapes,ThouVine;
203
OBest,ThouVineyardofredwine,
Keepingthybestwinetilltheclose.
PearlofgreatpriceThyselfalone,
AndruddierthantherubyThou;10
MostpreciouslightningJasperstone,
Headofthecornerspurnedbefore:
FairGateofpearl,ThyselftheDoor;
CleargoldenStreet,ThyselftheWay;
ByTheewejourneytowardTheenow,
ThroughTheeshallenterHeavenoneday.
IthirstforThee,fullfountandflood;
MyheartcallsThine,asdeeptodeep:
DostThouforgetThysweatandpain,
TheyprovocationontheCross?
20
Heartpiercedforme,vouchsafetokeep
ThepurchaseofThylavishedBlood:
ThegainisThine,Lord,ifIgain;
OrifIlose,Thineowntheloss.
Atmidnight(saiththeParable)
Acrywasmade,theBridegroomcame;
Thosewhowerereadyenteredin:
Therest,shutoutindeathandshame,
StrovealltoolatethatFeasttowin,
Theirdiewascast,andfixedtheirlot;
30
AgulfdividedHeavenfromHell;
TheBridegroomsaidIknowyounot.
ButWhoisthisthatshutsthedoor,
AndsaithIknowyounottothem?
Iseethewoundedhandsandside,
Thebrowthorntorturedlongago:
Yea;ThisWhogrievedandbledanddied,
ThissameisHeWhomustcondemn;
Hecalled,buttheyrefusedtoknow;
SonowHehearstheircrynomore. 40
204
BEFORETHEPALINGOFTHESTARS
Beforethepalingofthestars,
Beforethewintermorn,
Beforetheearliestcockcrow
JesusChristwasborn:
Borninastable,
Cradledinamanger,
IntheworldHishandshadmade
Bornastranger.
Priestandkinglayfastasleep
InJerusalem,10
Youngandoldlayfastasleep
IncrowdedBethlehem:
SaintandAngel,oxandass,
Keptawatchtogether,
BeforetheChristmasdaybreak
Inthewinterweather.
JesusonHisMothersbreast
Inthestablecold,
SpotlessLambofGodwasHe,
Shepherdofthefold:20
LetuskneelwithMarymaid,
WithJosephbentandhoary,
WithSaintandAngel,oxandass,
TohailtheKingofGlory.
EASTEREVEN
Thereisnothingmorethattheycando
Foralltheirrageandboast;
Caiaphaswithhisblasphemingcrew,
205
Herodwithhishost,
PontiusPilateinhisJudgementhall
JudgingtheirJudgeandhis,
Orhewholedthemallandpassedthemall,
ArchJudaswithhiskiss.
ThesepulchremadesurewithponderousStone,
Sealthatsamestone,OPriest;10
ItmaybethoushaltblocktheholyOne
Fromrisingintheeast:
Setawatchaboutthesepulchre
Towatchonpainofdeath;
TheymustholdfastthestoneifOneshouldstir
Andshakeitfrombeneath.
GodAlmighty,Hecanbreakaseal
AndrollawayaStone,
Cangrindtheproudindustwhowouldnotkneel,
Andcrushthemightyone.20
*******
Thereisnothingmorethattheycando
Foralltheirpassionatecare,
Thosewhositindust,theblessedfew,
Andweepandrendtheirhair:
Peter,Thomas,MaryMagdalene,
TheVirginunreproved,
Joseph,withNicodemus,foremostmen,
AndJohntheWellbeloved,
Bringyourfinestlinenandyourspice,
SwathethesacredDead,30
Bindwithcarefulhandsandpiteouseyes
ThenapkinroundHishead;
LayHiminthegardenrocktorest;
RestyoutheSabbathlength:
TheSunthatwentdowncrimsoninthewest
Shallriserenewedinstrength.
206
GodAlmightyshallgivejoyforpain,
Shallcomforthimwhogrieves:
Lo!Hewithjoyshalldoubtlesscomeagain,
AndwithHimbringHissheaves.40
PARADISE:INADREAM
(LyraMessianica,secondedition,1865.)
OnceinadreamIsawtheflowers
ThatbudandbloominParadise;
Morefairtheyarethanwakingeyes
Haveseeninallthisworldofours.
Andfainttheperfumebearingrose,
Andfaintthelilyonitsstem,
Andfainttheperfectviolet
Comparedwiththem.
IheardthesongsofParadise:
Eachbirdsatsinginginhisplace;10
Atendersongsofullofgrace
Itsoaredlikeincensetotheskies.
Eachbirdsatsingingtohismate
Softcooingnotesamongthetrees:
Thenightingaleherselfwerecold
Tosuchasthese.
IsawthefourfoldRiverflow,
Anddeepitwas,withgoldensand;
Itflowedbetweenamossyland
Withmurmuredmusicgraveandlow.20
Ithathrefreshmentforallthirst,
Forfaintingspiritsstrengthandrest:
Earthholdsnotsuchadraughtasthis
Fromeasttowest.
TheTreeofLifestoodbuddingthere,
Abundantwithitstwelvefoldfruits;
Eternalsapsustainsitsroots,
207
Itsshadowingbranchesfilltheair.
Itsleavesarehealingfortheworld,
Itsfruitthehungryworldcanfeed,30
Sweeterthanhoneytothetaste
Andbalmindeed.
IsawthegatecalledBeautiful;
Andlooked,butscarcecouldlook,within;
Isawthegoldenstreetsbegin,
Andoutskirtsoftheglassypool.
Ohharps,ohcrownsofplenteousstars,
Ohgreenpalmbranchesmanyleaved
Eyehathnotseen,norearhathheard,
Norheartconceived.40
Ihopetoseethesethingsagain,
Butnotasonceindreamsbynight;
Toseethemwithmyverysight,
Andtouch,andhandle,andattain:
TohaveallHeavenbeneathmyfeet
Fornarrowwaythatoncetheytrod;
Tohavemypartwithallthesaints,
AndwithmyGod.
WITHINTHEVEIL
Sheholdsalilyinherhand,
WherelongranksofAngelsstand,
Asilverlilyforherwand.
Allherhairfallssweepingdown;
Herhairthatisagoldenbrown,
Acrownbeneathhergoldencrown.
Bloomsarosebushatherknee,
Goodtosmellandgoodtosee:
Itbearsaroseforher,forme;
208
Herroseablossomrichlygrown,10
Myroseabudnotfullyblown,
Butsureonedaytobemineown.
PARADISE:INASYMBOL
Goldenwinged,silverwinged,
Wingedwithflashingflame,
SuchaflightofbirdsIsaw,
Birdswithoutaname:
Singingsongsintheirowntongue
(Songofsongs)theycame.
Onetoanothercalling,
Eachansweringeach,
Onetoanothercalling
Intheirproperspeech:
10
Highabovemyheadtheywheeled,
Faroutofreach.
Onwingsofflametheywentandcame
Withacadencedclang,
Theirsilverwingstinkled,
Theirgoldenwingsrang,
Thewinditwhistledthroughtheirwings
WhereinHeaventheysang.
Theyflashedandtheydarted
Awhilebeforemineeyes,
20
Mounting,mounting,mountingstill
Inhastetoscaletheskies
Birdswithoutanestonearth,
BirdsofParadise.
Wherethemoonrisethnot,
Norsunseeksthewest,
Theretosingtheirglory
209
Whichtheysingatrest,
Theretosingtheirlovesong
Whentheysingtheirbest:30
Notinanygarden
Thatmortalfoothathtrod,
Notinanyfloweringtree
Thatspringsfromearthlysod,
Butinthegardenwheretheydwell,
TheParadiseofGod.
AMORMUNDI
(TheShillingMagazine,1865.)
Oh,whereareyougoingwithyourlovelocksflowing
Onthewestwindblowingalongthisvalleytrack?
Thedownhillpathiseasy,comewithmeanitpleaseye,
Weshallescapetheuphillbyneverturningback.
SotheytwowenttogetheringlowingAugustweather,
Thehoneybreathingheatherlaytotheirleftandright;
Anddearshewastodoaton,herswiftfeetseemedtofloaton
Theairlikesofttwinpigeonstoosportivetoalight.
Oh,whatisthatinheavenwheregreycloudflakesareseven,
Whereblackestcloudshangrivenjustattherainyskirt?10
Oh,thatsameteorsentus,amessagedumb,portentous,
Anundecipheredsolemnsignalofhelporhurt.
Oh,whatisthatglidesquicklywherevelvetflowersgrowthickly,
Theirscentcomesrichandsickly?Ascaledandhoodedworm.
Oh,whatsthatinthehollow,sopaleIquaketofollow?
Oh,thatsathindeadbodywhichwaitstheternalterm.
Turnagain,Omysweetest,turnagain,falseandfleetest:
ThiswaywhereofthouweetestIfearishellsowntrack.
Nay,toosteepforhillmounting,nay,toolateforcostcounting:
Thisdownhillpathiseasy,buttheresnoturningback.20
210
WHOSHALLDELIVERME?
(TheArgosy,Feb.1866.)
Godstrengthenmetobearmyself;
Thatheaviestweightofalltobear,
Inalienableweightofcare.
Allothersareoutsidemyself,
Ilockmydoorandbarthemout
Theturmoil,tedium,gadabout.
Ilockmydooruponmyself,
Andbarthemout;butwhoshallwall
Selffrommyself,mostloathedofall?
IfIcouldoncelaydownmyself,10
Andstartselfpurgedupontherace
Thatallmustrun!Deathrunsapace.
IfIcouldsetasidemyself,
Andstartwithlightenedheartupon
Theroadbyallmenovergone!
Godhardenmeagainstmyself,
Thiscowardwithpatheticvoice
Whocravesforease,andrest,andjoys:
Myself,archtraitortomyself;
Myhollowestfriend,mydeadliestfoe,20
MyclogwhateverroadIgo.
YetOnethereiscancurbmyself,
Canrollthestranglingloadfromme,
Breakofftheyokeandsetmefree.
211
IF
(TheArgosy,March1866.)
Ifhewouldcometoday,today,today,
O,whatadaytodaywouldbe!
Butnowhesaway,milesandmilesaway
Frommeacrossthesea.
Olittlebird,flying,flying,flying
Toyournestinthewarmwest,
TellhimasyoupassthatIamdying,
Asyoupasshometoyournest.
Ihaveasister,Ihaveabrother,
Afaithfulhound,atamewhitedove;10
ButIhadanother,onceIhadanother,
AndImisshim,mylove,mylove!
Inthiswearyworlditissocold,socold,
WhileIsithereallalone;
Iwouldnotliketowaitandtogrowold,
Butjusttobedeadandgone.
MakemefairwhenIliedeadonmybed,
FairwhereIamlying:
Perhapshemaycomeandlookuponmedead
HeforwhomIamdying.
20
Digmygravefortwo,withastonetoshowit,
Andonthestonewritemyname;
Ifhenevercomes,Ishallneverknowit,
Butsleeponallthesame.
212
TWILIGHTNIGHT
(TheArgosy,March1866.)
Wemet,handtohand,
Weclaspedhandscloseandfast,
Ascloseasoakandivystand;
Butitispast:
Comeday,comenight,daycomesatlast.
Weloosedhandfromhand,
Wepartedfacefromface;
Eachwenthiswaytohisownland.
Athisownpace,
Eachwenttofillhisseparateplace.10
Ifweshouldmeetoneday,
Ifbothshouldnotforget,
Weshallclasphandstheaccustomedway,
Aswhenwemet
Solongago,asIrememberyet.
II
Wheremyheartis(whereverthatmaybe)
MightIbutfollow!
Ifyouflythitheroverheathandlea,
Ohoneyseekingbee,
Ocarelessswallow,20
BidsomeforwhomIwatchkeepwatchforme.
Alas!thatwemustdwell,myheartandI,
Sofarasunder.
Hourswaxtodays,anddaysanddayscreepby;
Iwatchwithwistfuleye,
Iwaitandwonder:
Whenwillthatdaydrawnighthathourdrawnigh?
Notyesterday,andnot,Ithink,today;
Perhapstomorrow.
DayafterdaytomorrowthusIsay:30
213
Iwatchedsoyesterday
Inhopeandsorrow,
AgaintodayIwatchtheaccustomedway.
214

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